Oil Functions
Name one function of lubricating oil.
Lubricates by reducing friction and preventing metal-to-metal contact.
What are the two main types of engine oil?
Conventional and synthetic (plus synthetic blends).
What is the purpose of the oil pump?
Circulates oil under pressure throughout the engine.
What does API stand for?
American Petroleum Institute.
Name one type of oil pressure warning device.
Low oil pressure warning light.
What function of oil helps reduce friction between moving parts?
Lubrication—oil forms a film to separate moving surfaces.
Name one advantage of synthetic oil over conventional oil.
Better high-temperature protection, improved low-temperature flow, fewer wax impurities.
Name two types of oil filters.
Spin-on and cartridge filters.
What does SAE rate in engine oil?
Viscosity (flow characteristics at cold and hot temperatures).
What does an oil life monitor track?
Calculates oil life based on mileage, start-ups, run time, and driving conditions.
Which function of oil helps absorb shock loads in high-wear areas?
Cushions points of extreme loading and absorbs shock.
What additive helps oil maintain viscosity over a wide temperature range?
Viscosity index improver.
What is the difference between a wet sump and a dry sump system?
Wet sump stores oil in the oil pan; dry sump stores oil in an external tank and uses scavenge pumps for high-performance applications.
Which certifying body issues GF-6A and GF-6B standards?
ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee).
What must be reset after an oil change?
Oil life monitoring system.
How does oil help cool an engine?
Oil collects heat from engine components and returns it to the oil pan.
What is a synthetic blend oil?
A mix of high-quality conventional oil and full synthetic oil for better protection and performance.
What component regulates oil pressure?
Oil pressure regulator.
What does the “W” in 5W-30 stand for?
Winter (indicates cold-start viscosity rating).
Name two factors that oil life monitors consider.
Number of start-ups and length of run time (also driving habits).
List all five main functions of lubricating oil.
Lubricates, cushions, cools, cleans (removes metal/carbon particles), seals piston rings to cylinder walls.
Name three common oil additives and their purposes.
Detergents (clean deposits), anti-foam agents (prevent bubbles), corrosion inhibitors (protect metal surfaces).
Name three components that make up the lubrication system.
Oil pan, oil pump, oil galleries (plus filter and pressure sensor).
Which organization provides stringent classifications for European vehicle oils?
ACEA (Association des Constructeurs Européens d’Automobiles).
What happens if oil pressure is lost in an engine?
Catastrophic engine damage due to lack of lubrication.