It Turns Out, Hybrids Are Really Hard On Engines

Summary

This video, sponsored by Mobile One, explores the challenges hybrid vehicles pose to engine performance. The focus is on three key issues: frequent engine start-stop cycles, water in the oil due to lower operating temperatures, and fuel dilution. It discusses how these factors can cause engine wear, corrosion, and oil flow issues. Solutions are provided, such as using the right oil formulations, ensuring engines reach proper temperatures, and incorporating additives like zinc to protect engine components. The video emphasizes the importance of choosing the right oil, such as Mobile One Hybrid, to address these unique challenges and maintain engine reliability.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Hybrid vehicles combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy.
• 🔄 Frequent start-stop cycles in hybrids can lead to increased engine wear, as 80-90% of wear occurs during engine startup.
• 🌡️ Hybrid engines often operate at lower temperatures, resulting in issues like water and fuel dilution in the oil.
• 💧 Water can enter engine oil from combustion byproducts and can lead to corrosion and lubrication problems if not addressed.
• 🧪 Oil with anti-wear additives, like zinc (ZDDP), helps protect engine components during startups.
• 🏭 Maintaining optimal engine temperature is crucial for evaporating water and fuel from the oil, preventing emulsion formation.
• ⚖️ Engine oil should contain demulsifiers to manage any water introduced into the oil, avoiding the formation of harmful emulsions.
• 🛢️ Mobile One's hybrid oil is formulated to address unique challenges faced by hybrid engines, ensuring effective performance.
• 📏 Engine oil certifications, like API SP, indicate that the oil has passed rigorous industry tests for performance and protection.
• 🔧 With proper maintenance, hybrid vehicles can be highly reliable, similar to traditional gasoline vehicles.

Q & A

What are the main components of a hybrid vehicle?

A hybrid vehicle consists of a traditional gasoline engine, a battery that powers an electric motor, and regenerative braking systems that help store energy.

Why are hybrid vehicles hard on engines?

Hybrid vehicles face unique challenges, including frequent start-stop cycles, lower operating temperatures, and the introduction of water and fuel into the oil.

What is the impact of frequent start-stop cycles on engine wear?

Frequent start-stop cycles can lead to significant engine wear, as up to 90% of engine wear occurs during startup when the lubricating oil hasn't fully circulated.

How does oil viscosity affect engine performance in hybrids?

Using a low cold viscosity grade oil, such as 0W, allows for better flow at lower temperatures, which is crucial for protecting the engine during cold starts.

What happens to the engine oil temperature in hybrid vehicles compared to traditional gasoline engines?

Hybrid vehicles tend to run at lower oil temperatures (about 70°C) compared to traditional gasoline engines (95-100°C), which can lead to issues like water and fuel dilution.

How does water get into the engine oil of hybrid vehicles?

Water can enter engine oil through combustion byproducts, humidity in the air, and blowby gases from the cylinders, especially in hybrid vehicles with lower operating temperatures.

What is an emulsion, and why is it a problem for engine oil?

An emulsion forms when water mixes with oil, creating a mixture that can lead to corrosion and increased wear, as it doesn't provide adequate lubrication for engine components.

What are demulsifiers, and how do they help in engine oil?

Demulsifiers are additives that break down emulsions in oil, helping to separate water from oil to prevent issues like increased wear and potential engine damage.

What is the recommended oil change interval for Mobile One Hybrid oil?

Mobile One Hybrid oil guarantees a change interval of 15,000 miles, designed to accommodate worst-case scenarios while ensuring optimal engine protection.

What certifications should one look for when buying engine oil?

Look for the API SP rating, which indicates that the oil has passed additional industry standardized tests for effectiveness in areas such as wear protection, fuel economy, and cleanliness.