They say having just 5 quarts will be enough for most of the vehicles. But this is a general statement. Instead, ask the manufacturer or check the car manuals to see the volume of lubricants the engine needs. Yes, we can say, it falls in the medium range.

But, is 5 quarts of oil enough? Yes, and No! Five quarts of oil is enough for small engines and short trips but not for bigger ones and longer drives. However, it depends on the engine condition, cylinder size, use frequency (rpm), oil type, driving habits, and many factors.

That said, there are lots of things to consider before we conclude. Let’s talk about them.

Driving With 5 Quarts Of Oil

Some might say it’s safe to drive with 5 quarts of oil to a certain extent while some warn about it. This can make one wonder!

How long can you drive with 5 quarts of oil?

5 quarts of oil can give you a range of 3000 to 6000 miles. The idea comes from manufacturers that consider a quart is burnt in every 600 to 1200 miles approximately. You can enjoy more miles with 5 quarts of synthetic oil.

Speaking of which, the type of lubricant should be considered too. Conventional oil breaks down and burns faster than synthetic as per the studies. How? Synthetic fluid has uniform molecules that handle higher temperatures better without getting much consumed. Hence, the oil doesn’t degrade fast. This is something conventional oil lacks. That’s why, choose synthetic oil over conventional.

However, sometimes, the lubricant might get consumed more quickly. In that case, going more miles will put your engine at risk of damage while sending you a low oil level warning. So, make sure to follow the manual instructions and suggestions accordingly.

Engine Oil Capacity All Cars

Typically, cylinders may need 5 to 8 quarts of oil. That said, the size of an automotive engine can tell you how much oil is needed.

A rule of thumb is that the smaller the capacity of cylinders, the less lubricant is required to fill them. Contrariwise, the bigger the size, the more room there is for fuel. Typically, vehicles come with 3, 4, 6, or 8 cylinders. Here’s a small detail on how much oil your car needs by the engine size.

1. Three-cylinder engine holds 2 to 3 quarts of oil.
2. Four-cylinder engine holds 3.5 to 5 quarts of oil.
3. Six-cylinder engine holds 5 to 6 quarts of oil.
4. Eight-cylinder engine holds 6 to 8 quarts of oil.

However, some may have more or fewer cylinders.

Most passenger cars have a 4-cylinder engine and they can easily be filled with around 3.5 to 5 quarts of lubricant.

Some have 6 cylinders that should hold at least 6 quarts. However, they can take around 5 quarts quantity and won’t hurt as long as it’s just a quart low to reach the maximum level and the lubricant consumption is slow. In case your engine burns oil fast, it’s better to keep the tank full.

As for the 8-cylinder engine, you can add 5 quarts but note that you can’t go far with low oil. If you try to drive more miles, the oil will be consumed faster and lead to more friction between the parts and damage to the engines. So, we would recommend filling the reservoir with enough lubricants.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Happens If My Oil Is Below Minimum?

Oil below the minimum line can lead to wear and tear in the engine system. So, don’t drive with low oil level. It can cause oil burning and excessive smoke out of the exhaust. Plus, friction can increase which can generate more heat. Because of severe rubbing between the parts, it consumes more oil to function well. Low oil can also cause rust and corrosion. All these will result in causing damage to the engine

Hence, make sure you have the cylinder refilled at the right time before any accident happens. Also, take the vehicle to the service center if you suspect any damage.

2. How Often Should You Top Up Engine Oil?

Engine oil level should be checked at least twice a month, and make sure to top up accordingly.

In case of an oil change, the majority of the vehicles come with fixed interval servicing. It means the oil should be changed every 3,000 to 9000 miles or every 3 to 12 months depending on the engine size and other conditions.

Final Words

Using sufficient lubricant is always recommended since it’ll keep you and the vehicle safe. Going a quart low is still harmless if you maintain the rules properly. By rules we mean, running the vehicle at a limited range of miles and replacing the lubricant on time.

So, is it ok to drive with 5 quarts of oil? Yes, it’s fine to drive with 5 quarts of oil as long as you keep the trip short and change the oil when it goes near the low level.

Related Post: Does Synthetic Oil Reduce Oil Consumption?

Related Post: Can You Mix Synthetic Oil with Regular Oil?

The only way to cool down an engine would be to bring it the right lubricant and maintain it properly. Here, viscosity plays a significant role and you’ll find some say, engines run smoothly when the fluid is efficiently viscous. Does it mean; that’s better?

Does thicker oil keep the engine cooler? Thicker oil can help keep the engine cooler indirectly as it can absorb heat and carry it away.

However, it depends on different factors and can cause the opposite situation. Here, you will find out how the viscosity of oil makes a difference to the engine conditions.

Role Of Oil In Keeping Engine Cool

Lubricants contain additive metals that act as anti-wear and friction-reducing agents. They have their own heat capacities that help the oil retain heat and form a strong film between engine parts. Not just that, they also have a thermal conductivity that makes them transfer heat to oil trays, so it dissipates into the air.

In short, it keeps the engine lubricated, reduces friction, and removes heat. That’s how the oil makes the engine stay cool.

However, lubricants with incorrect viscosity can create troubles.

1. Too thick oil at high temp: may force the engine to work harder and cause increased drag.
2. Too thick at low temp: can cause poor flow and starting issues.
3. Too thin oil at high temp: can cause excess friction and engine damage.
4. Too thin at low temp: can fail to provide sufficient lubrication and lead to damage.

Choosing The Right Oil Thickness To Run Cool

Studies say that lubricant viscosity is highly temperature dependent. It increases as the temp goes down and decreases as the temp goes up. So, just going with a thicker oil randomly won’t help. Because we need to consider the type of engine, the severity of friction, and how hot or cold it is.

Lubricants should be thick for higher heat to function properly. Because it won’t be affected by the extreme temp. Instead, it will keep the parts well-lubricated while removing heat from them. Now, which engine oil is best for high temperatures? Depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations, oils with 5W30 to 10W40 can be suitable for scorching summer. The higher the rating, the thicker, hence, the better.

In colder weather, engines don’t produce extra heat so it’s okay if the lubricant is somewhat thin. The outdoor temp can thicken the oil anyway to some extent. However, a high-quality oil will ensure stability and smooth flow across the system no matter how low the temp is. In that case, which oil is better for colder temperatures? 5W can be better for winter use since it moves smoothly while making sure the engine doesn’t get hot. Plus, it provides easier starts.

Notes: Do check the viscosity rating and grade suggested by the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) to get the right one. A multi-grade synthetic lubricant can be efficient since it handles and resists extreme temps well. Such oils also contain viscosity index improver that ensures they don’t get too thick or thin.

You can also read:

1. Does Engine Oil Expand When Hot?
2. Is Synthetic Oil Thinner Than Regular Oil?

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Happens If Engine Oil Is Too Thick?

Your vehicle may experience starting troubles and improper lubrication if engine oil is too thick or viscous. But this is mostly applicable for low temps. Then again, some clear and hidden signs will help you here. Let’s give you some more ideas regarding what else can happen.

Engine Oil Too Thick Symptoms

1. Takes a longer time to pump.
2. Pressurize the bearings.
3. Starting difficulty.
4. Forcing engine parts to work harder.
5. Higher stress on engine parts, hence shorter engine life.
6. Poor fuel economy

Engine can experience damage even if you use lubricants thicker than what’s recommended at high temps. So, we suggest following what manufacturers or experts say.

2. How To Keep Engine From Overheating?

Having a coolant and ensuring its efficiency can keep the engine from overheating. Because this is the main purpose of such a system. In case it runs out of antifreeze fluid, just top it off to keep it going. Here are some more techniques you can follow to reduce overheating.

• Turn on the heater and switch it to full blast while keeping the windows open.
• Turn off the air conditioner and reduce engine strain. 
• Check the coolant and temperature gauge regularly. 

In case you find any issues and notice that the temp isn’t going down, take it to the experts.

3. Do Engines Run Cooler With Synthetic Oil?

Yes, synthetic oils have additives with thermal conductivity that ensures absorption and transfer of heat to other locations while keeping parts lubricated. This way, such lubricants help keep the engine cool.

Not just that, researchers found that synthetic oil handles temperature better thanks to the uniform molecules composition. It flows across several parts and doesn’t get quickly consumed.

Final Words

Viscosity of engine oil is significant. But as you can see, going beyond the recommended range can cause trouble too.

So, you shouldn’t ask whether thicker oil runs cooler. Instead, ask what viscosity of oil to use for your engine to stay stable. You’ll get the answer right in the manuals of equipment manufacturers. We suggest using the oil according to the temperature and engine type.

The formulation of transmission fluids keeps changing and updating with the advancement of vehicles and their mechanisms. Although ATF+4 managed to keep pace with the upgrade, Dexron 3 stopped in the mid (with H) allowing different versions (like Dexron HP or ULV) to continue. But that’s not what makes them different. There’s one vital point. 

So, what is the difference between Dexron 3 and ATF+4? Dexron 3 is a conventional auto fluid made for older transmissions of Chevy and Ford while ATF+4 is synthetic and compatible with older and modern models of Chrysler, Ram, Jeep, and Dodge. 

But wait, there are more dissimilarities that we found out. 

Dexron 3 Vs. ATF+4 

Both are made for specific mechanisms that make one different from the other. However, DEX 3 kind of has outdated ingredients whereas ATF 4 comes with an updated formula. 

Below, you can read more about ATF 4 vs Dexron III.

Dexron 3

Dexron comes with a series of ATFs that are compatible with transmissions of Chevrolet and General Motors. Although the original one (DEX B) was introduced in 1967, the first version of DEX 3 (F) appeared in 1993 while the last version, DEX 3 (H) in 2003. 

When it comes to Dexron 3, it’s a standard conventional fluid made of Group 2 base oil and special additives. It acts as a hydraulic fluid and lubricant for different mechanisms like transmissions, manual gearboxes, transfer cases, and power steering systems. 

You can use it in older Chevy models like GM transmissions pre-2005, Ford transmissions introduced between 1983 and 1996, and the ones that require DEX 2. However, the newer the automotive models, the later the fluid versions that are required. 

For instance, Electric Vehicle (EV), Hybrid (HEV), Newer 6, 8, 9, and 10-speed transmissions would need particular fluids to work properly. So to make the fluid compatible with modern transmissions, its specifications have been upgraded over the years. 

ATF+4

ATF+4 is created to meet the requirements of Fiat Chrysler auto transmissions (FCA). It can be used in transmissions of Ram, Jeep, and Dodge models too. The fluid was released in 1998 by Chrysler and was stated to be officially licensed. 

It’s fully synthetic and contains Group 3 base oil with a variety of additive packages. ATF+4 acts as both hydraulic fluid and lubricant for the transmission system, hydrodynamic converters, and steering systems. However, the formulations have changed over the years. 

While the original version was suitable for Chrysler mini-van transmissions, the revised ones were compatible with the latest 6-speed transmissions. ATF+4 also has specific additives included for particular transmissions. 

It might work for the mechanisms that require ATF+, ATF+2, and ATF+3 fluids. You can also use it in most of the older and some of the newer models of the stated manufacturers. All you need is to check their compatibility. 

You can also read: All About Power Steering Fluid.

Comparison Chart Of Dexron 3 And ATF+4

Factors	Dexron 3	ATF+4
Type	Standard conventional ATF	Fully synthetic ATF
Introduced in	1993	1998
Brand Compatibility	GM transmissions pre-2005, Ford transmissions from 1983 and 1996	Chrysler, Ram, Jeep, and Dodge
Suitable for	Older transmissions	Most of the older and some newer transmissions
Made of	Group 2 base oil and additives	Group 3 base oil and additives
Uses	Transmissions, gearboxes, transfer cases, and power steering systems.	Transmissions, hydrodynamic converters, and steering systems

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can You Mix Dexron 3 With ATF+4?

Yes, you can mix Dexron 3 with ATF+4 as long as they meet the specifications of the transmissions. Since one is conventional and the other is synthetic, you’ll end up with a synthetic blend. It’s a safe mixture if you’re using the vehicle at a medium level. 

In case the system is operated in severe conditions, the blend will fail to function properly. Hence, we wouldn’t suggest mixing the types as it won’t maintain the quality. Not just that, the worst thing that can happen is the slip of torque converter clutch and transmission wear. 

2. Can I Use Dexron Instead Of ATF+4?

No, using Dexron instead of ATF+4 can degrade your transmission system. Most of the Dexron fluids are outdated whereas ATF+4 comes with upgrade formulas. 

The system that’s compatible with ATF+4 would need certain alternatives. For instance, AMSOIL Multi-Vehicle ATF can be a suitable option since the quality and grade are similar. 

Meanwhile, Dexron fluids are for older engines and you can use them with the ones that call for them. 

3. Is Dexron 3 The Same As ATF+4?

No, Dexron 3 and ATF+4 have different formations made of different contents. They are also designed for particular transmissions of certain brands. The only similarity is that they are transmission fluid that also acts as a lubricant. 

Final Words

The key difference between Dexron 3 and ATF+4 is the use of contents and additives in them. Also the vehicles they are formulated to be used in play a vital role. 

Although you can use ATF+4 instead of Dexron fluids, the opposite is a big no. It’s because ATF+4 is a high-quality fluid and can give you advanced benefits. Meanwhile, Dexron 3 is just for older models of Chevy or Ford and works to perform average. 

However, we suggest you always check the specifications of vehicles and transmissions and get the fluid accordingly.

Thanks to power steering, we get to control and move the vehicle the way we like without any effort. However, such mechanical devices need a sort of fuel to keep up the good work. And that’s when the steering fluid comes into effect.  

What is power steering fluid? Power steering fluid is a medium that makes sure the wheels turn easily and that the components like valves, pistons, pumps, and hoses work well. It gives power to the steering system and keeps the parts lubricated. These are what power steering fluids do. 

Now through this article you are gonna learn all bout power steering fluid. Let’s get started.

Contents Of Power Steering Fluid

Power steering fluid is a kind of hydraulic fluid containing 92wt% of mineral oil, silicones, or synthetic oil and a variety of additives. It also has 0.5-5wt% of vegetable-based oil, particularly an estolide of a hydroxy-stearic acid. When it comes to additives of power steering fluid, it includes- 

1. Anticorrosion agents like amines, alkenyl succinic esters, and alkenyl succinic imides. They work to make the fluid non-corrosive. 
2. Antioxidants like phenols (i.e. mono-alkyl and poly-alkyl phenols) and amines. They prevent auto-oxidation of fats and oils. 
3. Anti-wear additives like phosphate esters. They prevent asperities and abrasion in the fluid system. 
4. Friction-controlling additives like organic molybdenum compounds and fatty acid compounds. They help decrease friction. 
5. Antifoaming agents like esters and silicone compounds. They help hinder the creation of foam. 
6. Viscosity index improvers like methacrylate copolymers and olefin copolymers. They resist the dilution of power steering fluid at extreme temperatures. 
7. Detergents like alkaline earth metal phenates and alkaline earth metal sulfonate. They prevent formation and buildup of sludge and deposits. 
8. Dispersants like alkenyl succinic esters, alkenyl succinic imides, and amino-amidos (i.e. amides of a long-chain fatty acid with a polyamine). They help keep the system free of sediments. 

Types Of Power Steering Fluid 

The fluids contain some specific contents. So, are all power steering fluids the same? No, power steering fluid has different kinds. Even though some ingredients are similar, some are different. Let’s know about the power steering fluid types. 

You can also check: Is Car Oil Toxic?

1. Synthetic Power Steering Fluid

Such fluids are created in a lab and mostly contain polyesters, polyhydric alcohols, and a trickle of refined petroleum fractions. They are typically ideal for modern vehicles. Manufacturers like Volvo, Toyota, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Honda suggest such fluids. However, they suggest using the ones that meet their specifications. You can consider using Royal Purple, Driven, or ATP for the system.  

2. Mineral Power Steering Fluid

It’s mainly made of refined petroleum fractions coming with additives. You can use Penrite, Mineral 1 L, or Febi for vehicles, especially the older ones that are compatible with such fluids. 

3. Auto Transmission Fluid

For power steering systems compatible with ATF fluid, consider using Mercon, ATF+4, Dexron, Starol, and Type F. Typically, many vehicles from the 1970s till mid-1990s use such steering systems that accept ATF fluid. 

How Long Does Power Steering Fluid Last?

The shelf life of power steering fluid depends on the type, whether it’s opened or not, storage condition, usage, and different elements. While the unopened container should last from 3 to 5 years, the opened but unused one can stay good from 2 to 3 years. 

However, the contents of fluid can break down due to metal or sediment contamination, overheating, and extreme pressure. This can reduce the shelf life of the liquid too. 

Not just that, the steering fluid can oxide over time and end up with a change in color and residual buildups on the pump valves. The seals and O-rings can get hard leading to cracks of parts, leaks, and poor performance of the fluid. 

Read Also: What Happens If You Put Wrong Oil In Car?

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Is Power Steering Fluid The Same As Hydraulic Fluid?

Power steering fluid is a sub-type of hydraulic fluid whereas all hydraulic fluids aren’t compatible with a power steering system. The contents of such fluid give power to the steering system while making it flow through the rack and pinion. As it moves across the parts, it applies pressure to the piston that helps make the wheels turn with ease. 

2. Is Power Steering Fluid The Same As Brake Fluid?

No. Different chemical compositions make power steering fluid different from brake fluid. So, you cannot use them interchangeably. Doing so can lead to severe damage to the steering or braking system. And this can result in unwanted accidents. 

You can use Auto Transmission Fluid as power steering fluid alternative but the vehicle has to be compatible with them. Meanwhile, a solution of soap and water can be an effective brake fluid alternative. So, you can see the difference. 

3. How To Change Power Steering Fluid?

Make sure to turn off the engine before changing the fluid. Then, wipe the reservoir and its cap with a cloth. Check the fluid level with a dipstick fixed to the cap. If it’s below the MIN line, then add fluid while making sure you don’t exceed the MAX line. In case the fluid is above the MIN level, then examine the fluid quality. If you find it cloudy, dark, or foamy, then change it. 

Final Words

That’s all about power steering fluid. It indeed makes driving easy by giving power to the steering system. However, you should check the fluid occasionally so you can change it at the right time. 

We praise petrol and diesel whenever they are compared to gaseous alternatives. Not only do they power the car, keep the engine parts well-lubricated, and cause less internal damage, but also emit lower harmful chemicals than their counterpart. That said, the same car oil has a darker side which makes us ask this prominent question.

Is car oil toxic? Regular car oil can have up to 90% hydrocarbon and a variety of additives that make it toxic. Additives cause combustible hydrocarbon to burn more and generate black smoke that results in affecting humans, plants, animals, fishes, trees, and soil. 

The good news is that there are eco-friendly fuel alternatives that have impressed us with their benefits. So, not all kinds of car oils are toxic. 

What Makes Car Oil Toxic?

Most types of car oil contain around 75-90% of hydrocarbon distillates while the rest are additives. The common ones include petroleum and diesel. Among these two, diesel has lower hydrocarbon content with around 75% than the other which has 90%. 

Since the organic compound isn’t very thick, it’s mixed with anti-knocking agents like lead, copper, and cerium. These metals add more viscosity to the oil and keep engine pistons from clanking while moving. Without them, the parts will create constant loud friction and end up causing damage. 

What’s the issue with car engine oil? 

Now, hydrocarbon is super combustible whereas agents promote the combustion. This makes the agents responsible for generating more carbon dioxide in form of black smoke. And as the smoke is released from car exhausts into the environment, traces of different harmful chemicals disperse alongside. Some of them include- 

• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Nitrogen Oxides (NO)
• Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
• Formaldehyde
• Benzene (Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
• Soot

All of these contribute to air pollution.

Few Consequences Of Car Oil Toxicity

1. Affecting Human Health 

Different chemicals are released from car exhausts. Car engine oil reduces air quality and causes several conditions in human health. 

Carbon monoxide easily binds with the hemoglobin and produces carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). This leads to CO poisoning for which we suffer from suffocation. It can also lead to death. 

Exposure to a greater amount of Benzene or Aromatic Hydrocarbons and Sulphur Dioxide leads to lung diseases. Those 2 along with Formaldehyde and Nitrogen Oxide also contribute to conditions like coughing, shortness of breath, nausea, and different neurologic problems. 

When it comes to soot pollution, it can be pretty severe. Studies have found that breathing soot heavily for a longer period can cause strokes, heart attacks, asthma, acute bronchitis, and premature death. 

2. Adverse Impacts On Water, Fish, Soil, And Plants

When Sulphur dioxide and Nitrogen Oxide are released into the air from the car exhausts, it can cause acid rain. The impacts of acid rain are multiple. It pollutes everything in nature including freshwater, marine creatures, plants, soil, and trees. 

• When water becomes acidic, it lowers the pH level and ends up killing a variety of marine creatures. 
• Acid rain also affects the growth of crop fields and forests. It removes nutrients and minerals from the soil and reduces its fertility. 
• Trees and plants that are exposed to acid rain lose their nutrients and become more vulnerable to extreme temperatures and insects.

3. Affecting Animals

Aromatic hydrocarbons and soot can cause cancer in animals. Breathing air or drinking water that’s contaminated can impair the respiratory system. If animals inhale those chemicals heavily and the toxins get deposited in the lungs for a longer period, it can damage different organs as well. 

Eco-Friendly Car Oils

1. Biodiesel

Biodiesel is made with renewable sources of oil. It can be produced from substances like rapeseed, soy, waste cooking oil, vegetable oil, tallow, and animal oil or fats. Not only it’s biodegradable but also non-toxic. 

So, we consider it an efficient alternative to common types of motor oil for reducing air pollution. 

Although biodiesel combusts and generates hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide, the emission is much lower. 

As per the research by Environmental Protection Agency, biodiesel releases 11% less CO and 10% less harmful chemicals than diesel. 

2. Bioethanol

Bioethanol is made from fermentable sugar and starch that comes from first-generation biomass i.e. crops. It can be corn, wheat, sugarcane, or anything with a higher concentration of sugar. 

Studies claim that using bioethanol can be a beneficial way to reduce environmental pollution. How? 

Because it’s a clean-burning fuel. When the fuel combusts, it usually emits Carbon Dioxide and water. So, there will be no harmful chemicals like black smoke or soot.

Moreover, many results of engine tests showed a noticeable improvement in the performance of car parts and their health. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Aren’t Eco-Friendly Car Oils Common Yet?

Engine incompatibility and the cost of raw materials are two primary reasons why biofuels aren’t prevalent yet: 

• Engine Incompatibility

Most car oil engines that run on diesel can use biodiesel only if it’s for a couple of hours and under mild weather conditions. A lot of engine manufacturers have limited the use of such biofuels since they can affect the lifespan of the engine.  

If the engine isn’t compatible, biofuel can cause damage to the physical properties of different car parts. 

In such a case, we must check our OEM engine warranty and make sure that the manufacturer has approved the use of higher blends of biofuels. 

• Cost Issues

The price of feedstock or raw materials used in biodiesel and bioethanol is expensive. Hence, it has increased the cost of biofuels. As per the latest report, biodiesel is between 70 and 130% pricier than fossil diesel depending on the materials used. 

Is Engine Oil Toxic To Touch?

Engine oil may burn your skin and irritate it if you have skin sensitivity. In case the contact is frequent and prolonged, it can result in dermatitis, skin diseases, and cancer too. So, we suggest you avoid touching engine oil, be it diesel or petroleum, with your bare hands. Make sure to always wear disposable gloves while draining used oil. 

Can Biodiesel Be Blended With Regular Diesel?

We can blend up to 20% of biodiesel with the regular ones for car engines. Many blends are available that go by the name- B20, B5, and B2.

• B20 is 20% biodiesel with 80% petroleum diesel
• B5 is 5% biodiesel with 98% petroleum diesel
• B2 is 2% biodiesel and 98% petroleum diesel

Changing the ratio and blending a large amount of biofuels with regular ones can affect engine life. Hence, we must check the approval of blending usage in the manufacturer manual of the engine. 

Final Words

Although car oil emits harmful chemicals lower than gaseous alternatives, it doesn’t help reduce environmental pollution. Traditional oils contain combustible components like hydrocarbon and harmful additives like lead. So, when all of them along with secondary toxic chemicals are released through black smoke via car exhaust, it gets mixed with air and causes damage to humans and other living beings. 

See Also:

• Does Engine Oil Brand Matter?
• What Happens If You Put Wrong Oil In Car?