Dangers of Overfilling Engine Oil

What Happens If There Is Excessive Engine Oil In The Vehicle

Published by: Chevron Technology | 16-Jan-2025

Aside from filling the petrol in the car, changing the engine oil is one of the most important tasks that keeps your vehicle running smoothly. However, there are times when vehicle owners overfill their car engines with excessive oil. While this is a common mistake, if not addressed promptly, it can lead to several issues, including engine damage, reduced fuel economy, and even overheating. Let’s dive into the symptoms, causes, and fixes for overfilled engine oil in your vehicle.

DANGERS OF OVERFILLING ENGINE OIL

To understand how excessive engine oil can negatively impact your vehicle, it's crucial to know how the engine functions. Your car engine consists of various moving parts that require proper lubrication to operate efficiently. Engine oil plays a vital role in lubricating these components and reducing friction. Not changing the engine oil at the right time can already hinder performance, but adding too much oil can also create problems.

When there is too much oil, the level in the oil pan rises, causing the crankshaft to come into contact with the oil. This interaction aerates the oil, creating a foamy substance that cannot properly lubricate the engine. Here are some other dangers of overfilling your car engine with oil:

Engine Damage

Excessive engine oil can increase pressure within the engine, leading to damage of crucial parts such as bearings, seals, and other engine components. This may result in costly repairs or even engine failure if left unchecked.

Reduced Fuel Economy

Adding too much oil can reduce your car's fuel efficiency by up to 10%. This is because the foamy oil can’t properly lubricate the engine, causing it to work harder and consume more fuel than necessary.

Engine Overheating

Overfilling the engine with oil can also interfere with its cooling system. Excess oil generates more heat, and without proper cooling, the engine may overheat, leading to damage or a complete breakdown.

Engine Smoking

Another telltale sign of overfilling is excessive smoke coming out of the exhaust. This smoke is caused by oil entering the combustion chamber, which can be a sign of serious engine issues.

TIPS TO AVOID OVERFILLING THE ENGINE WITH OIL

If you suspect that you’ve added too much oil, it’s essential to take immediate action. First, check the oil level using the dipstick. If the level is above the “full” mark, you’ll need to remove the excess oil. Here are some tips to avoid overfilling your engine with oil in the future:

Regularly Check Oil Levels

Use the dipstick to monitor your engine oil levels frequently. If the oil is above the recommended mark, remove the excess promptly to avoid engine damage. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to read the oil dipstick.

Use the Correct Oil Type

Always make sure you’re using the best oil for your car as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Using the wrong type of oil can exacerbate engine issues, including overfilling problems. Choose premium engine oil brands to ensure optimal performance.

Don’t Overfill the Oil Filter

When changing your car's oil filter, be mindful not to overfill it, as this can cause leaks and potentially more serious engine problems.

Add Oil Gradually

When topping off or refilling the engine oil, do so slowly. Check the levels frequently to ensure you don’t exceed the recommended amount. This will help prevent accidental overfilling and maintain your car’s efficiency. While engine oil is vital for the health of your vehicle, too much of it can lead to a variety of problems, from engine damage to poor fuel economy. Regular oil changes are essential, but always be careful about the amount of oil you add. Using premium engine oils can also enhance your vehicle’s performance and longevity. If you overfill the engine, don’t panic—just take the necessary steps to drain the excess oil and restore the proper level.

This Article is written by Chevron Technologies In collabaration with Industry Expert