The short answer is yes, it does! But how cold weather affects engine oil and what that looks like is worth delving into, especially for those of us who have to drive in the New England winter. Cold temperatures affect engine oil, changing the engine’s performance and the overall wear and tear on your car. However, if you know what the cold can do to your engine oil, you can be prepared for the winter weather and take preventative measures at your next oil change.
A simple oil change isn’t enough to get your engine through a cold winter. Here’s how frigid temperatures can affect engine oil.
Higher Viscosity
Engine oil thickens in cold temperatures, increasing the viscosity. This increased viscosity means it doesn’t flow as freely, making it harder to flow through the engine. The slower circulation can result in parts of your engine not being lubricated enough, increasing wear to pistons, bearings, and other components. The higher viscosity is especially a problem for cold starts. Anyone who has to park outside overnight should keep an eye out for problems related to viscous oil.
Increased Engine Wear
As we mentioned, oil with higher viscosity can fail to lubricate the engine adequately during a cold start. The primary purpose of engine oil is to prevent the metal components from rubbing against each other and wearing out. If the oil is too viscous and does not reach the components before they start moving, the engine will wear out faster than it should. When you live in an area with very cold winters, this increased wear can noticeably reduce the engine’s lifespan.
What You Can Do
- Use the right oil: Choose an oil with an appropriate winter viscosity rating (e.g., 5W-30, 0W-20) for your climate.
- Keep your engine warm. In very cold conditions, using an engine block heater can keep the engine oil warmer, reducing startup stress.
- Get regular oil changes. Ensure that oil is replaced regularly, particularly in winter months when oil can become contaminated with fuel and moisture.
- Avoid short trips. Try to avoid excessive short trips in very cold weather, as this doesn’t allow the engine oil to fully warm up and circulate properly.
Schedule an Oil Change at Road Runner Auto Repair
Although you’ll need to do more than just change your oil to keep your car running this winter, it’s still a great place to start. Contact Road Runner Auto Repair today to schedule a service appointment for your vehicle.