From Jalopnik · Peter Nelson · · 50s
Hydraulic vs Motor Oil: Key Differences
Hydraulic oil acts as a fluid for power steering, while motor oil lubricates engines.
In brief
Hydraulic oil acts as a fluid for power steering, while motor oil lubricates engines. Hydraulic oil is thinner and used for actuation in power steering, motor oil provides lubrication for engines. Originally reported by Jalopnik.
Hydraulic oil purpose
Hydraulic oil acts as a fluid for power steering systems and braking components.
Motor oil purpose
Motor oil lubricates engine components and prevents friction at high temperatures.
Viscosity differences
Hydraulic oil is thinner and designed to flow under high pressure without compressing.
Special additives
Hydraulic oil contains additives to prevent cavitation and foaming from power steering leaks.
Engine oil additives
Motor oil includes detergents and protective films to clean engines and prevent oxidation.
Key distinction
Hydraulic oil actuates components, while motor oil primarily lubricates engines.
The main idea
Hydraulic oil is thinner and used for actuation in power steering, motor oil provides lubrication for engines.
