Learn about the use of lubricants, the effect they have on the engine and their benefits in this video.

The metal parts of the engine rub together and as a result, they suffer the effects of friction (generated heat and premature wear). It's a bit like water-skiing. The buoyancy of the water makes you glide across the waves more easily. The same principle applies to a lubricant inside the engine. The lubricant helps to decrease the effects of friction between the moving parts. Consequently, they wear out more slowly and do not heat up. The oil reduces friction, which improves the performance of the engine and reduces its fuel consumption as well.

What is more, lubricants protect engine against corrosion and acid attacks. They also help to reduce its temperature.

Last but not least, a lubricant can remove any impurities that may accumulate over time (soot, dust and wear debris), which maintains the performance level of the engine.

A lubricant is generally composed of 70% base oil and 30% additives. The additives offer vital properties:

The antioxidant additives increase the oil's ability to resist high temperatures, which leads to less frequent oil changes.

Other additives preserve the lubricity of the oil.

The detergent additives prevent the formation of deposits. That keeps the engine clean and maintains its performance level throughout its lifetime.

The anti-foaming additives prevent the oil from frothing and the oil pump from running dry.

The cold temperature additives help the lubricant to remain fluid at low temperatures, so as the engine starts more quickly.

The anti-wear additives increase the longevity of the engine by creating a protective barrier on the surface of the parts.

The extreme-pressure additives increase resistance to wear and reduce friction.

Finally, the anti-corrosion additives prevent acid, water and air from attacking the metal parts. This is how the engine remains younger for longer.