What are the consequences of using low-quality lubricants by mistake?

The current lubricant market is quite complex, featuring many counterfeit, unregulated, and origin-unclear products. How will a vehicle change if it accidentally uses low-quality oil? What are the signs of poor-quality lubricants? What criteria should be used to evaluate good lubricants for motorcycles?

The answers will be in the following article from Huynh Chau. Let's explore together!

Low-quality lubricants can cause vehicle malfunctions and reduce lifespan.

1. Consequences of using low-quality lubricants

Using counterfeit or low-quality lubricants can pose significant risks to the engine and the longevity of the vehicle. Here are some of the most noticeable consequences of using inadequate oil for motorcycles:

Difficult to start

Many people do not fully understand the criteria for evaluating good lubricants for motorcycles, leading them to choose unsuitable, low-quality products. This can make it harder for the oil pump system to lubricate the engine, resulting in difficulty starting the vehicle and potentially stalling while on the road.

Causing damage and wear to vehicle components

Lubricants play a crucial role in lubricating, cleaning, and cooling the engine. If low-quality oil is used, your vehicle will not only be poorly maintained but will also be subjected to harsh operating conditions. The components most affected are the piston rings and pistons. Without proper lubrication, dirt and debris can easily adhere to these parts, causing damage and accelerated wear.

Higher fuel consumption

Typically, a vehicle’s engine consumes about 15% of its fuel for friction. If one knows how to evaluate good lubricants for motorcycles and selects the right product with good lubrication properties, the friction between components will be reduced, resulting in fuel savings. On the other hand, using low-quality oil can lead to increased fuel consumption during operation.

Environmental pollution

Low-quality lubricants lack the ability to clean the engine. Over time, accumulated dirt in the components can overflow into the fuel tank, contaminating the fuel. A portion of this contaminated fuel may not be fully burned and escapes through the exhaust system, producing black or white smoke and contributing to environmental pollution.

It is essential to choose lubricants based on brand and technical specifications to avoid damaging the vehicle.

Low-quality lubricants can significantly threaten the engine and vehicle lifespan. So, what are the criteria for evaluating good lubricants for motorcycles? Several important factors to consider include: the lubricant brand, JASO specifications, viscosity grade, and API quality standards.

2. Identifying poor-quality lubricants

Identifying low-quality lubricants is not as difficult as we might think