Enhancing Engine Efficiency: The Impact of Different Brand Oils and Friction Modifiers on Fuel Consumption

Abstract

Reducing fuel consumption to lower CO₂ emissions remains a crucial goal for the automotive industry. One effective approach to achieving this objective is reducing friction-related energy losses within the engine through the use of low-viscosity engine oils and friction-modifying additives. This study investigated the relationship between engine oil type and fuel consumption in a fleet of 12 identical passenger cars equipped with the same engine and operated under similar real-world conditions. The research was conducted in three stages over a period of three years. During the first two stages, three different engine oils were evaluated under comparable operating conditions and varying seasonal temperatures. In the third stage, two additional oils were introduced and the effects of friction-modifying additives were assessed. Altogether, 12 oil–additive combinations were analyzed. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in fuel consumption associated with the use of additives. The results showed that friction modifiers altered fuel consumption patterns, with the direction and magnitude of the effect depending on the engine oil formulation and operating temperature. The findings indicate that appropriately selected oil–additive combinations can contribute to improved engine efficiency and reduced fuel consumption under specific operating conditions.