How hot can engine oil get?
In most cases, the temperature in the engine is determined by temperature sensors in the cooling water. Always keep an eye on your temperature display. In continuous operation, this should ideally be between 80 °C and 100 °C. However, these values have little to do with the actual temperature load on the engine oil.
One of the tasks of an engine oil is to cool the relevant components. Extreme temperatures prevail, especially in areas subject to extremely high loads, such as the piston crown or the oil scraper ring. Maximum temperatures of 300 °C are not uncommon. The oil must reliably fulfil its lubricating effect here, too. However, the load only lasts for a very short time. The lubricants are constantly returned to the oil sump in the oil flow and cooled down again. Even modern engine oil, consisting of synthetic base oils and high-performance additives, can only withstand this load for a short time. If the cooling chain does not function properly, there is a risk of considerable damage.
Problems caused by hot engine oil
High temperatures accelerate the chemical processes in the engine oil, such as oxidation. The oil reacts with oxygen, which leads to the formation of deposits, sludge and acids. These substances impair the lubricating performance of the oil and contribute to ageing.
It becomes critical from around 250 °C, where the oil begins to change its molecular structure, which leads to so-called "cracking". This is a process in which the carbon chains in the oil break down. This results in a permanent reduction in viscosity. The consequences are fatal. Metal comes into direct contact with each other. This leads to increased wear. Additives, which guarantee important properties of the engine oil, are also damaged. They lose their effectiveness, burn or are deposited in unfavourable places. In the worst case, this can lead to total failure.
If the engine temperature reaches a critical range, a warning light on the dashboard normally flashes. At this point, you should switch off the engine or visit a workshop as soon as possible. Faults or damage to the engine must be checked immediately.
However, it should not come so far. You can also actively counteract problems. The following points should be checked:
- Check the oil level regularly
- Find the right oil for your vehicle with our Oilfinder
- Compensate for losses in good time
- For extreme loads such as driving over mountain passes, travelling with a caravan, etc. reduce the oil change interval
- Check the cooling circuit and adhere to the coolant change intervals
You should also not skimp on oil. ADDINOL high-performance lubricants are formulated with powerful base oils and additives. They are therefore extremely temperature-stable and can prevent potential damage.
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