Car Engine Oil: Functions, Types, and Components

In the car lubrication system, there is a component called the oil pan which has a quite important function. Its presence serves to store the lubricant as well as regulate the flow of oil to other engine components.

Although the existence of this part is considered simple, who would have thought that its function is also important. Especially in helping to maintain the health and performance of your four-wheeled vehicle's engine. 

However, many of you may still be quite unfamiliar with the existence of this component. That is why it is important to pay attention to the explanation below regarding its functions, types, and the components within it. 

Understanding the Function of the Oil Pan

The oil pan itself is located under the vehicle's engine and is usually connected to the engine block component. As mentioned earlier, the main function of this component is to store and control the amount of oil that can be used in the engine. 

Being an important component, any damage to it will have an impact on the vehicle. Below are several functions that can be obtained from the oil pan. 

1. To Hold Oil

The main function of the oil pan is as a place to hold the engine oil. Next, the oil will be sucked up and will again serve as a lubricant for the engine. 

2. Oil Filter

In addition to holding the lubricant, the pan is also used to filter the oil. Thanks to this filter, the oil that will be reused will be filtered first so that it can be used several times. 

3. To Make Oil Circulation Smoother

This component also has the function of making oil circulation smoother. Especially when driving, you will encounter various types of roads from smooth to uneven. 

4. Functions as a Drainage Channel

There is still another function of the oil pan, which is to act as a drainage channel for the engine oil. When you drain this oil, the part of the pan plays a significant role. 

As additional information, engine oil has a lifespan and must be replaced regularly. If not, it will reduce the engine's performance in the car, making it less optimal. 

Read Also: Causes of Decreased Engine Oil Volume

Types of Oil Pans to Know 

There are two main types of oil pans that are usually used for cars and can be adjusted to the needs of the engine. The two types are:

Wet Sump System 

The first is the wet sump oil pan type, which is the most commonly used in car engines. It is called so because this container will carry oil and function as an oil reservoir. 

Dry Sump System 

This type of pan has an extra oil reservoir outside the engine and not in the oil pan. Later, the oil is pumped out of the pan to enter a remote container. 

Components of the Oil Pan Inside

For this part to function properly, there are also several components inside it. These components include:

1. Oil pan or oil sump for storing oil
2. Drain plug for draining oil during replacement 
3. Oil pan gasket helps to prevent oil leaks
4. Baffle functions to direct the flow of oil to prevent it from moving freely
5. Float or sensor to provide information about the amount of engine oil

The existence of these components is indeed important and must be well maintained. Including for owners of Daihatsu cars, they must keep these components functioning properly. Damage to the oil pan can affect the vehicle's performance.