Adding oil – on a cold or warm engine, and how often should you top up the lubricant in your car?

Topping up engine oil is a practice many drivers choose. And for good reason – on one hand, oil protects the engine from overheating, and on the other, it ensures its proper functioning by lubricating various parts. Therefore, when the situation calls for it, replenishing the oil may be crucial for maintaining the engine's reliability and protection. But have you ever wondered when the best time is to add oil? Should you do it on a cold engine or a warm one? Or maybe you're wondering how often you should perform this top-up? In this article, I will try to answer these questions and provide key information about topping up engine oil.

Why is topping up oil necessary?

Engine oil plays a key role in maintaining the engine's efficiency and performance. Its main function is to lubricate the moving parts of the engine, which prevents excessive friction and premature wear. In addition, oil protects the engine from corrosion, absorbs heat from hot parts, and helps keep them at the proper temperature. However, over time, the oil level may decrease due to natural consumption, leaks, or evaporation.

Ignoring the need for topping up may lead to a dangerously low oil level, which in turn could cause serious problems like engine overheating or even complete failure. Therefore, regularly monitoring and topping up oil when necessary is not only recommended but essential for ensuring the long and trouble-free life of your vehicle. Also read: Oil change every 2 years.

When should you top up engine oil?

The decision to top up engine oil should be influenced by several key situations. First of all, regularly checking the oil level using the dipstick is essential – if you notice that the oil is below the recommended minimum, you should top it up. Secondly, the presence of oil stains under the car may indicate leaks, which also might require topping up. Additionally, if you notice that the engine is noisier than usual or hear unusual sounds, it could be a sign of low oil levels. Lastly, warning signals on the dashboard, such as the oil light, are a direct indication that the oil level is too low and requires immediate attention.

Topping up oil on a cold or warm engine?

The question of when it’s best to top up oil – on a cold or warm engine – raises many questions among drivers. Here’s what you need to know. Topping up oil on a warm engine has the advantage that the oil is thinner and flows more easily over engine components, which can make it easier to get an accurate reading of the oil level. However, an engine that’s too hot may cause the oil to evaporate, which could lead to inaccurate readings. For this reason, it is recommended to wait a few minutes after turning off the engine before topping up, allowing it to cool down but not completely. On the other hand, topping up on a cold engine ensures that all the oil has settled in the oil pan, making it easier to get an accurate reading. Ultimately, the most important thing is to always carefully check the oil level, regardless of engine temperature, and ensure it is within the recommended range set by the vehicle manufacturer.

How often should you top up engine oil?

Modern cars are equipped with warning systems that notify us when the oil level is too low. However, with older car models, checking the oil level is solely the responsibility of the driver. Therefore, it is important to check the oil level in the engine at least every 1000 km. Although oil consumption is a natural process in every engine, we must remain vigilant to avoid a situation where the oil level falls below the safe minimum. If you notice that your engine is consuming large amounts of oil, before opting for an expensive repair, it’s worth considering using TEC 2000 Engine Flush. Often, oil consumption is caused by stuck piston rings, and this product can help solve the problem by cleaning and restoring the proper function of the mechanisms. Also read: How to reduce engine oil consumption?

Topping up with a different oil – is it a good idea?

When the oil level in the engine starts to drop, many drivers face the dilemma: can you top up with oil of a different brand or specification than the one currently used in the engine? The answer to this question is not straightforward.

However, in emergency situations, it is better to add a different oil than to allow the level to drop below the safe minimum. It is important, though, that the oil you add meets the car manufacturer's specifications and has similar properties to the one currently being used. In the long term, it is advisable to replace the entire oil with a uniform type to avoid potential issues and ensure optimal engine protection.