An oil analysis is a valuable tool in determining the health of an engine. By analyzing the composition of the oil, experts can gather valuable information about the condition of the engine and the oil itself. In a recent video from Engineering Explained, sponsored by Mobil 1, host Jason Fenske explores the process of oil analysis using his own Subaru Crosstrek as an example.
Fenske collected 12 synthetic oil samples from his vehicle for analysis. These samples were taken at various stages, including four samples of new oil, four samples after 15 minutes of idling post oil change, and four samples following a 3,000-mile road trip. Two sets of samples were sent for analysis – one to Mobil 1 and another to Blackstone Laboratories for verification.
Oil analysis provides a wealth of information, but one of the key aspects to consider is the presence of wear indicators. Different metals can be found in the oil, and the quantity of these metals can indicate the health of various engine components. For example, the presence of aluminum could suggest wear in the pistons, while iron could indicate wear in the crankshaft. By measuring the levels of these metals in parts per million (ppm), experts can determine the condition of the engine’s components.
Contaminants in the oil can also provide important insights. Two notable contaminants to look out for are potassium and sodium. These elements are byproducts of engine coolant, so if they are detected in significant amounts in the oil, it could indicate a coolant and oil mixing issue, potentially pointing to a head gasket failure. Another common contaminant to watch out for is silicon, which can suggest contamination from sand or dirt due to a malfunctioning air filter.
Related Post
Furthermore, oil analysis can help gauge the condition of the oil itself and determine if it’s time for a change. Fuel dilution is an important factor in this regard. If fuel mixes with the oil, it can thin it out and reduce its effectiveness. The Total Base Number (TBN) is another key parameter when assessing the oil’s health. TBN indicates the level of additives present in the oil that fight against the buildup of contaminants. A TBN above 1.0 is recommended by the third-party lab used for Fenske’s analysis.
Additionally, oil analysis can provide insights into soot levels, which are of particular concern in diesel engines and direct-injected gasoline engines. Excessive soot can indicate an issue with combustion or fuel quality. Detecting water contamination in the oil is also important, as it can lead to engine damage if left unaddressed. Viscosity levels, which indicate the oil’s thickness, and the levels of oxidation and nitration, two chemical reactions that degrade the oil over time, are also assessed during the analysis. However, if oil changes are performed at the factory-recommended intervals, it is unlikely that any significant issues will be revealed in these areas.
In conclusion, oil analysis is a powerful tool that allows experts to assess the health of an engine and the quality of the oil. By examining wear indicators, contaminants, and the oil’s condition, valuable information can be gathered to guide maintenance decisions. Oil analysis should be considered as part of a comprehensive maintenance routine to ensure the longevity and optimal performance of an engine.
