Can You Put Oil in a Hot Car Engine?

The Short Answer

No, you should not put oil in a hot car engine.

The Long Answer

When your car engine is hot, the oil is thin and runny. Adding cold oil to a hot engine can cause the oil to cool down too quickly, which can thicken the oil and make it difficult for it to circulate properly. This can lead to engine damage.

Additionally, adding cold oil to a hot engine can cause the oil to foam. Foamy oil is less effective at lubricating the engine, which can also lead to engine damage.

What to Do if You Need to Add Oil to a Hot Engine

If you need to add oil to a hot engine, it is important to do so slowly and carefully.

1. Park the car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
2. Pop the hood and wait for the engine to cool down for a few minutes.
3. Locate the oil dipstick and pull it out.
4. Wipe the dipstick clean with a rag.
5. Reinsert the dipstick into the engine and pull it out again.
6. Check the oil level on the dipstick. If the oil level is low, add oil slowly and carefully, checking the oil level frequently.
7. Once the oil level is correct, replace the dipstick and close the hood.

How to Avoid Adding Oil to a Hot Engine

The best way to avoid adding oil to a hot engine is to check the oil level regularly and add oil as needed before the engine gets too hot.

You can also use a high-quality oil that is designed to withstand high temperatures. This type of oil will be less likely to thin out and foam when added to a hot engine.

Conclusion

Adding oil to a hot car engine can be dangerous and can lead to engine damage. If you need to add oil to a hot engine, it is important to do so slowly and carefully.