Can I Use Car Engine Oil in Motorcycle?
The answer is a resounding NO. Car engine oil and motorcycle engine oil are not interchangeable. They are designed for different purposes and have different additives. Using car engine oil in a motorcycle can damage the engine.
Here are some of the reasons why you should not use car engine oil in a motorcycle:
Different Additives
Car engine oil and motorcycle engine oil contain different additives. These additives are designed to protect the specific components of each type of engine. For example, motorcycle engine oil contains additives that protect against wear and tear on the gears and transmission. Car engine oil does not contain these additives.
Different Viscosity
Viscosity is the thickness of the oil. Motorcycle engine oil is typically thinner than car engine oil. This is because motorcycle engines run at higher RPMs than car engines. Thinner oil can flow more easily through the engine and provide better lubrication.
Different Friction Modifiers
Friction modifiers are additives that reduce friction between metal surfaces. Motorcycle engine oil contains friction modifiers that are designed to work with the specific metals used in motorcycle engines. Car engine oil does not contain these friction modifiers.
What Happens if I Use Car Engine Oil in a Motorcycle?
Using car engine oil in a motorcycle can damage the engine in several ways:
- Increased wear and tear: The lack of wear-resistant additives in car engine oil can lead to increased wear and tear on the gears and transmission.
- Oil starvation: The thicker viscosity of car engine oil can make it difficult for the oil to flow through the engine. This can lead to oil starvation, which can damage the engine.
- Clutch slippage: The friction modifiers in car engine oil can cause the clutch to slip. This can make it difficult to shift gears and can lead to premature clutch failure.
Conclusion
Do not use car engine oil in a motorcycle. It is not designed for the specific needs of a motorcycle engine and can cause damage. Always use the correct type of oil for your motorcycle as specified in the owner’s manual.
