How to tell the color of engine oil
The color change of engine oil is one of the important indicators to judge its performance and whether it needs to be replaced. This article will combine the hot topics and hot content on the Internet in the past 10 days to provide you with a detailed analysis of the meaning of engine oil color, and provide structured data to help you better understand.
1. The basic meaning of engine oil color

The color of engine oil will change with use time and working conditions, and different colors represent different states. Here are the basic classifications of engine oil colors and their meanings:
| color | Status | Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| clear or light amber | New engine oil or has been used for a short period of time | No need to replace |
| dark amber or brown | During normal use, there is some oxidation | Can continue to be used, but requires attention |
| black | Severe oxidation or contamination | It is recommended to replace it as soon as possible |
| Milky white or cloudy | May be mixed with moisture or coolant | Check and replace immediately |
2. Reasons for the color change of engine oil
Oil color changes are often caused by:
1.oxidation reaction: Engine oil will oxidize when it comes into contact with air at high temperatures, causing the color to darken.
2.pollutants: Impurities such as dust and metal particles mixed into the engine oil will accelerate the color change.
3.Moisture mixed in: Condensation or coolant leakage inside the engine will cause the engine oil to emulsify and become turbid.
4.Additive consumption: The additives in engine oil are gradually consumed with use, affecting the color and performance.
3. How to judge the condition of engine oil by color
The following are the specific steps:
1.Sampling and inspection: 10 minutes after the engine is turned off, use the oil dipstick to take out a small amount of engine oil and drop it on the white paper.
2.observe color: Compare the color classification in the above table to determine the engine oil condition.
3.Check for impurities: Rub the engine oil with your fingers and feel if there is any graininess.
4.Odor discrimination: Severely oxidized engine oil will have an obvious burnt smell.
4. The correlation between hot topics on the Internet in the past 10 days and the color of engine oil
Recently, the topic of engine oil color has become quite popular on automotive forums and social media. The following are some of the hot discussion points:
| hot topics | Related content |
|---|---|
| Color changes of new energy vehicle oil | The color of electric vehicle oil changes slowly, but it still needs to be checked regularly |
| Color stability of long-life motor oil | Some brands of engine oil change color slowly, but performance may have been reduced |
| Oil Color and Engine Life | Long-term use of blackened oil may accelerate engine wear |
5. Professional suggestions and precautions
1.Don’t judge by color alone: Color is one of the reference indicators, and it also needs to be combined with mileage and usage time.
2.Change engine oil regularly: Even if the color change is not obvious, it should be replaced according to the manufacturer's recommended period.
3.Choose regular products: Inferior quality engine oil may change color abnormally, affecting engine performance.
4.Pay attention to driving habits: Frequent short-distance driving or high temperature conditions will accelerate the color change of the engine oil.
Summary
The color of engine oil is an important indicator of its condition, but it is not the only criterion. Car owners should make a comprehensive judgment based on color, mileage, usage time and other factors. Through regular inspection and reasonable maintenance, the life of the engine can be effectively extended and driving safety can be ensured.
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