How The Weather & Seasons Affect Vehicle Oil Performance

Posted on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 | 139 views

In this article we explain the effects the weather and seasons have on vehicle oil and some tips on how to keep your engine oil performing optimally.

As a vehicle owner, it’s important to know that as temperatures quickly shift from season to season, the performance of your vehicle’s oil can be impacted.

Seasonal changes affect the oil viscosity, evaporation rates, and the overall efficiency of the engine – all of which influences how long your vehicle works in good condition.

How Oil Acts with the Seasons

Oil acts significantly different in winter and summer simply because of the temperature changes. Cold weather thickens the oil and hot temperatures thin it. Both of which affect its ability to lubricate and cool the engine.

Oil Viscosity in Cold Weather

Cold temperatures make oil thicker and less fluid which makes it harder for the oil to circulate through the engine. This can potentially delay start times and increasing engine wear because the engine has to work harder to pump the oil to the engine components. If you change your oil by yourself or add extra jugs if you see its down, you have to use an oil that has a low-temperature viscosity rating which helps it remain fluid in the cold.

Heat Effects on Oil Viscosity

High temperatures during summer have the opposite effect. When it’s hot it causes the oil to thin and evaporate more quickly. Thinner oil provides less protection for engine components, leading to increased wear. Oil designed for high temperatures will evaporate less and properly protect the engine in hot weather.

A good way to remember which oil to use during each season is “When the weather is cold, keep the oil thin; when the weather is hot, put thick oil in!”

Check if Your Oil Struggling in Extreme Temperatures

When it’s extremely hot or cold it can lead to symptoms that indicate your oil is no longer performing optimally. The following explains the symptoms you can find with each weather extreme.

Cold-Weather Symptoms

In colder months, you may notice a few signs that your oil is struggling.

• The engine may start slower than normal.
• You may hear unusual noises, like knocking or sputtering.
• The engine may fail to drive as smoothly as usual.
• Fuel efficiency might decrease because of increased engine strain.
• The vehicle may vibrate more during idling or at low speeds.
• Acceleration may be sluggish or less responsive than normal.

To recap, these symptoms occur because thicker oil struggles to circulate efficiently in cold weather.

Hot-Weather Warning Signs

During hot months, keep an eye out for:

• The engine may begin overheating, especially during long drives.
• You might notice a faster drop in oil levels.
• There could be a noticeable smell of burnt oil.
• Oil may appear darker or sludgy when checked.
• Exhaust smoke might look darker or thicker than usual.
• Engine power may feel reduced, particularly on inclines.

These signs indicate that your oil may be evaporating or burning too quickly in the heat which may lead to extreme engine wear.

The Right Oil for Every Season

Choosing the right oil for each season is a smart step toward keeping your vehicle in peak condition. Seasonal oil selection helps protect your engine and reduce wear from extreme temperatures.

Oil for Cold Climates

In winter use an oil with a low “W” rating, which means it flows better in cold conditions. Winter oil reduce the strain on your engine by staying fluid at low temperatures.

Oil for Hot Climates

In summer use oil with high viscosity ratings so it can withstand high temperatures better and protect the engine by reducing evaporation and providing a thicker layer of lubrication at all times.

The Take Home

Here’s a summary list of the tips to ensure your engine oil is performing optimally:

• Seasonal shifts impact oil’s thickness and performance, with cold weather thickening oil and heat thinning it.
• Use oil with a low-temperature “W” rating in the winter, and high-viscosity oil in the summer.
• In cold weather watch for slow engine starts, unusual noises, or rough driving, as thick oil may struggle to circulate.
• In summer, look for symptoms like faster oil loss, burnt oil smells, or overheating, as thin oil can evaporate quickly.
• Remember, “When the weather is cold, keep the oil thin; when the weather is hot, put thick oil in!”

Keeping up with seasonal oil maintenance is a simple but necessary way to protect your engine. The best way to keep your engine in top condition is by staying proactive by changing your oil regularly and using the right oil when you top or replace it yourself.