Adam Klimekas, an expert from TotalEnergies, clarifies that a change in oil color is a natural phenomenon, primarily influenced by the presence of combustion products like soot. In diesel engines, the oil's color can darken almost immediately after it's changed due to the higher volume of combustion products produced during operation. In modern gasoline engines, this process is slower, although it can still occur relatively quickly, particularly in direct-injection gasoline engines, which have their own unique combustion dynamics.

Klimekas emphasizes that the change in oil color does not directly correlate to its quality or performance. While an oil's color may darken with use, it serves crucial functions such as cooling and lubricating engine components and collecting contaminants. The oil behaves as a dispersant, breaking down soot particles and preventing them from settling on engine parts, which is essential for maintaining engine performance over time.

Additionally, Klimekas discusses how oil filters play a critical role in this process by capturing larger contaminants, helping to extend the oil's useful life. Therefore, while a change in oil color may prompt concern among vehicle owners, it should not be the sole indicator for an oil change, as many factors contribute to oil degradation and engine health.