Six common additives used in most engine oils are:
- Detergents: Detergents help keep your engine clean by preventing the build-up of sediment and sludge. They work by dispersing and suspending contaminants, preventing them from settling and causing engine damage. Different brands of cleaners have different effects on removing carbon deposits and dirt. When choosing, you should consider their cleaning power and adaptability to the engine.
- Dispersants: Dispersants work synergistically with detergents to keep contaminants suspended in the oil. They prevent the formation of harmful deposits and sludge, protecting the engine from damage and maintaining proper lubrication.
- Anti-wear agent: Anti-wear agent forms a protective layer on the metal surface to reduce friction and prevent wear. They help extend the life of engine components such as piston rings and bearings by minimizing metal-to-metal contact. The effectiveness of anti-wear agents is usually proportional to the amount they are added, but excess anti-wear agents may affect the cleanliness and filtration performance of the engine oil.
- Friction modifiers: Friction modifiers reduce friction between moving parts, improve fuel efficiency and reduce engine wear. They enhance the oil’s lubricating properties and contribute to smoother operation.
- Viscosity modifier: Viscosity modifier helps maintain the required viscosity of engine oil at different temperatures. They ensure proper oil flow, providing adequate lubrication and protection, both during cold starts and under high temperature conditions. The advantage of viscosity index improver is that it can optimize the viscosity of engine oil, but the disadvantage is that excessive use may affect the purity of the oil.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants prevent the oxidation of oil, which can lead to the formation of harmful sludge and varnish. They extend the life of the oil and help maintain its performance. High-quality antioxidants can significantly improve the antioxidant properties of engine oil, but different brands of antioxidants may have differences in performance and service life.

By using engine oils containing these additives, engine lubrication and protection can be enhanced to ensure optimal performance and service life.

