What is Grease? Its Types and Functions!

Grease is another term for grease (thick lubricant). In the automotive world, grease consists of various types, and each type has a very vital function in maintaining car components, especially engine components. Instead of being curious, let's directly recognize what grease is along with its types and functions as follows.

What is Grease?

Grease is a thick lubricant made from several materials such as calcium, mineral oil, lithium gel, and sodium. For those who are not familiar with the term grease, this product is commonly known in society as grease.

Types of Grease

In the market, grease is divided into several types. The types that are usually used in cars are as follows.

1. Chassis grease (L)

This type is grease intended for lubricating chassis and suspension components. This type of grease usually has the code "L" on its packaging. The characteristic of this type of grease is its light brown color, with a medium consistency (not too liquid and not too thick). Chassis grease has the advantage of being water-resistant, so it does not change the appearance of the components that have been lubricated.

In the market, chassis grease is divided into two types as follows.

LA: Used as a lubricant for car components with light workloads such as door hinges, steering shafts, steering ball joints, and others.
LB: Used as a lubricant for car components with medium workloads (quite heavy) such as shafts on hydraulic pumps, leaf spring bushings, knuckle axle beam blocks, hydraulic pump shafts.

2. Wheel bearing grease (G)

As the name suggests, this type of grease is used as a lubricant for the bearings and wheels of the car. On the packaging of wheel bearing grease, the code "G" is usually indicated. Because wheel bearing grease is created as a lubricant for rotating car components, this type of grease has a stickier and more complete consistency, making its texture similar to gel material. In terms of durability, wheel bearing grease is known to withstand high temperatures and strong friction, preventing bearings from being thrown off when rotating.

In the market, wheel bearing grease is also divided into several types. The complete types are as follows.

GA: functions as a lubricant for bearings with light workloads such as bearings located on steering joints.
GB: functions as a lubricant for bearings with medium workloads such as joint components on the propeller shaft.
GC: functions as a lubricant for bearings with heavy workloads such as bearings on car wheels.

3. Special grease

This type of grease is used as a lubricant for specific components that are more specific. For example, grease on rack and pinion steering, drive shafts, brake piston seals, and other special components.

Functions of Grease

In general, grease has a very vital function in cars. The complete functions are as follows.

Prevents rust and corrosion on vehicle bearings.
Serves as an alternative sealing system.
Acts as a lubricant and adhesive for two components in the vehicle engine, preventing damage such as engine leaks.
Protects vehicle components from dust and dirt contamination from the outside.
Reduces noise generated between components that are rubbing against each other.
Protects cable connectors from water ingress.
Absorbs heat generated by two vehicle components that are rubbing against each other.
Forms a lubrication layer on the surface of the lubricated components, preventing the surfaces from premature damage even under heavy workloads.

Thus, the review of what grease is along with its types and functions. Although grease can prevent premature damage to components, you must still regularly check the condition of your car. If there are problems, immediately service at an official Daihatsu workshop.