Engine oil can thicken noticeably in cold weather, which directly affects engine starting and service life. Roman Timashov, Deputy General Director of the Avtodom Group of Companies, spoke about the reasons for this effect.
According to him, as the temperature decreases, the viscosity of the oil increases, and the pumpability decreases. As a result, the lubricant passes worse through the channels and does not have time to quickly reach the friction pairs. This is especially critical at the time of a cold start, when the engine experiences maximum loads.
Some car owners pour oil into engines that does not correspond to climatic conditions or is not recommended by the manufacturer. Heavily contaminated oil also quickly thickens in the cold.
Timashov highlighted three key reasons. The first is the use of oil that is not designed for winter conditions. The second is pouring a product that the car manufacturer does not recommend for a particular engine. The third is severe contamination of the lubricant, due to which it loses its properties and thickens faster in the cold.
If the oil circulates poorly, the components begin to work "dry". This accelerates the wear of cylinders, pistons with rings, camshaft and other parts that depend on the pressure in the system. With severe thickening, the starter does not have enough effort to turn the crankshaft, and the engine simply does not start.
Timashov warned that seals and gaskets may be damaged due to the high pressure of thick lubricant. In the cold, they lose their elasticity, and this increases the risk of leaks and damage.