Choosing the right engine oil is essential to keep your car running smoothly and to protect its engine from damage. However, sometimes drivers unknowingly use oil that is not suitable for their vehicle’s engine, which can cause serious problems over time. Recognizing the early signs of unsuitable engine oil can save you from expensive repairs. Here are six key signs that your engine oil may not be right for your car.

1. Unusual Engine Noise

One of the first signs that your engine oil might be unsuitable is an unusual or louder engine noise. Proper engine oil provides a lubricating film that reduces metal-to-metal contact inside the engine. If the oil’s viscosity or quality is wrong, the lubrication becomes insufficient, causing increased friction and noise, such as knocking or ticking sounds.

2. Overheating Engine

Engine oil not only lubricates but also helps in cooling engine parts. Using oil with the wrong viscosity or poor thermal properties can cause the engine to overheat because the oil cannot efficiently carry heat away. Overheating can lead to severe engine damage, so if your temperature gauge rises unexpectedly, check your oil type and condition.

3. Black, Thick, or Sludgy Oil

Healthy engine oil is typically amber and transparent. If you notice your oil turning black quickly, becoming thick, or sludgy, it might indicate that the oil is breaking down due to incompatibility with your engine or contaminants. Using the wrong oil can accelerate oil degradation and sludge formation, which clogs oil passages and harms engine performance.

4. Poor Fuel Economy

Using the wrong engine oil can increase friction in the engine, making it work harder and consume more fuel. If you experience a sudden drop in fuel efficiency, it could be related to your oil choice. Using oil with the recommended viscosity and quality helps maintain fuel economy by reducing internal resistance.

5. Increased Oil Consumption

If your car starts consuming more oil than usual or you find yourself frequently topping up oil, it might be because the oil is not suitable. Some oils evaporate faster or break down under your car’s operating conditions, leading to faster depletion. Incorrect oil may also fail to form a proper seal in the engine, causing leaks or burning oil.

6. Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Modern cars are equipped with sensors that monitor oil pressure and quality. If your oil is unsuitable, you may see warning lights such as the oil pressure warning or check engine light. Never ignore these signals, as they indicate potential engine damage.

Conclusion

Using unsuitable engine oil can harm your car’s engine and lead to costly repairs. Always choose the correct oil type, viscosity, and quality recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. If you notice any of the signs above, check your oil immediately and consider an oil change with the right product to keep your engine healthy and efficient.