The article discusses a prevalent belief among drivers that motor oil must be changed immediately if it becomes black. An expert from TotalEnergies, Adams Klimeks, explains that the change in color of lubricants is a natural process and is not necessarily a sign of deterioration. New motor oil can change color within a few hundred kilometers, especially in diesel engines where this occurs almost immediately, compared to gasoline engines, where the process is slightly slower but can still happen rapidly in direct injection models.

The changing color of oil results from the by-products of fuel combustion, primarily soot. While diesel engines produce notably more soot, recent gasoline engines, particularly direct injection ones, also generate significant amounts of it. As the engine operates, the oil circulates and picks up these combustion residues, leading to the oil darkening over time. This natural process is often misunderstood, causing unnecessary concern among drivers regarding the condition and effectiveness of their motor oil.

Ultimately, the article aims to educate drivers on the importance of understanding oil behavior over time and urges them not to immediately panic at the sight of darkened motor oil. Regular monitoring and adherence to maintenance schedules remain crucial, but a simple color change is not a definitive indicator of oil failure or the need for an immediate change.