Small engine oils, formulated for 2-cycle engines, provide less lubrication and do not contain the necessary additives for 4-cycle engines in cars.
Here's what can happen when you use small engine oil in your car:
- Lack of Lubrication: Small engine oil does not contain enough lubricating components to withstand the higher heat, pressure, and revolutions in car engines. This can accelerate engine wear and increase friction between engine components, leading to premature part failure.
- Engine Overheating: Without adequate lubrication, the increased metal-on-metal contact can lead to excessive heat generation, causing engine overheating.
- Piston Damage: The piston rings, which form the seal between the piston and cylinder to prevent gas from escaping into the crankcase, rely on oil for proper lubrication. Using an inappropriate oil can cause piston rings to stick, leading to broken piston rings and possible engine failure.
- Excessive Engine Deposits: Small engine oil might contain different detergents and additives compared to car engine oil, which can result in the formation of deposits on engine components, such as the pistons, valves, and oil passages. These deposits can interfere with engine performance and potentially block oil passages, causing lubrication problems.
- Oil Pump Issues: Small engine oil may not meet the viscosity (thickness) specifications for car engines, which can affect the performance of the oil pump. This can lead to oil pressure problems, causing engine components to be inadequately lubricated.
- Shortened Engine Life: The combined effect of these issues will lead to a significantly shortened engine life, requiring expensive engine repairs or even engine replacement in severe cases.
Avoid using small engine oil in your car. Always use the oil grade recommended by your vehicle manufacturer to ensure optimal engine performance, protection, and longevity. If you're unsure about the type of oil to use, consult your car's owner's manual or seek advice from automotive experts.
