Oil additives are a much-debated modification, with some claiming they’re pointless and others swearing by their performance-boosting benefits. These varied reviews might make you question whether oil additives are worth it. For some vehicles, they work, and for others, they don’t. This overview will outline the types of vehicles that could benefit from additives and, if you own those vehicles, why you should use oil additives in your diesel engine.
What Are Oil Additives?
Additives improve the performance of motor oil by helping it protect against corrosion, remove contaminants, and cool your vehicle’s engine. They’re chemical compounds that are added to a base oil during manufacturing. Some are engineered to serve specific purposes, such as running cleaner or improving seals and block leaks. Off-the-shelf oil contains anywhere from 15 to 30 percent oil additives, to begin with, but adding more can enhance their benefits.
Additives are a necessity for efficient engines. Oxidation and decomposition can reduce the number of natural additives in your engine’s oil over time. Motor oil that lacks the additives it requires to operate can cause poor fuel economy, rust build-up, overheating, and even breakdowns.
The addition of additives can improve your engine’s performance and protect your vehicle from serious engine problems.
Does My Vehicle Need Additives?
If you’re thinking of using oil additives, you’ll want to consider your vehicle’s age, mileage, and engine condition. Newer vehicles scarcely require the added boost, but it won’t hurt either. Older, high-mileage vehicles might need supplemental additives to function at their full potential.
High-mileage vehicles are vulnerable to damage and require frequent oil changes. Supplementing their motor oil with additives can protect the engine from wear-and-tear and decrease the amount of necessary maintenance.
Older vehicles, such as high-mileage vehicles, are susceptible to engine damage. They’re more likely to have internal rust and corrosion, too. For these reasons, additives can be beneficial, as they slow the rate of oxidation and keep your engine clean.
For vehicles that show visible signs of wear-and-tear, additives will improve the engine’s lubrication, reduce friction between metal components, and slow the rate of oxidation.
The Benefits of Using Additives
There are plenty of reasons why you should use oil additives in your diesel engine, including improved fuel economy and reduced noise.
Less Frequent Maintenance
Supplemental additives keep your engine in tip-top shape. Predictably, properly functioning engines require less maintenance than compromised ones.
Improves Fuel Economy
Additives reduce friction, which, in turn, boosts your engine’s fuel economy.
Reduces Wear and Tear
Sufficient lubrication prevents friction from occurring. Additives create a protective seal that helps your engine start up smoothly.
Gets Rid of Noise
Better lubrication means less friction, and less friction means less noise.Not sure about the type of additive you should use? This guide recommends some of the best additives for your power stroke. It’s best to pick an additive that suits your needs; if you want better fuel economy, get an oil additive that supports that.
