Automotive Lubricants
What Are Automotive Lubricants?
An automotive lubricant is responsible for the lubrication of automotive parts to reduce any friction caused in your vehicle.
It also serves a number of secondary functions. It helps clean and cool down the engine parts and prevents rust and corrosion buildup.
Lubricants are either oil-based, solid, plastic, or a combination of the three. The most common lubricants are usually oil or grease, but you may also encounter dry or penetrating lubricants.
4 Types Of Automotive Lubricants
Engine Oil And Gear Oil
Engine oil (also known as motor oil) is usually very fluid in texture and has a low viscosity. We usually use conventional oil (also known as mineral oil) or synthetic oil for lubrication.
Grease
Grease has a similar function to that of oil, but it is far thicker and stickier in consistency. This quality makes it ideal for gears, linkages, bearings, and chains.
Penetrating Lubricant
Penetrating lubricant is very refined; therefore, perfect for fast-moving engine parts that would be slowed down by the resistance caused by automotive grease.
Dry Lubricant
A dry lubricant is composed of a liquid (like water or alcohol) and fine particles of any dry lubricant (like graphite). Available in a spray bottle, the liquid evaporates after a while, leaving behind a thin layer of dry lubrication.
What Are Automotive Lubricants Used For?
Automotive lubricants are primarily used for the following functions. They:
- Reduce friction between engine parts
- Prevent wear and tear
- Dissipate the heat and maintain the temperature
- Protect the equipment from oxidation and corrosion
- Keep the engine clean and carry the contaminants
- Dampen and cushion the engine components under high stress
However, with the advancements in the automotive lubricants industry, modern industrial lubricants can now serve many other functions. For example, motor oil is often used to enhance fuel-efficiency, whereas gear oil and gear lubricant is specifically used to lubricate gear parts against high-pressure contact. Some synthetic lubricants can even improve vehicle horsepower with reduced engine drag. How well these lubrication systems work will, however, depend on what type you use.
Let’s take a closer look.
How To Choose The Right Automotive Lubricant
The growth of the global automotive lubricants market has resulted in tons of lubricant and transmission fluid options. The type of lubricant you choose will ultimately depend on the task at hand and the application requirements.
Grease would serve better for the lubrication of wheel bearings, for example. It would create a stronger, more long-lasting barrier against friction as compared to engine oil.
Your safest bet is to consult the vehicle manual.
The right lubricant must meet international standards, including being API, ACEA, JASO, or ILSAC certified. Also, ensure that you pick a lubricant that retains its viscosity through varying temperatures.
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