"Engine oil"with"Lubricating oil"are two often confused terms that can actually refer to the same product. In the automotive world, these two terms are often used as synonyms, both referring to lubricants used to lubricate internal parts of an engine. However, in some specific contexts, it may sometimes be used to describe different kinds of lubricants.
Engine oil"Engine oil"The term is often used to describe lubricants used in internal combustion engines. The main function of motor oil is to form a protective film between the moving parts inside the engine, reducing friction and wear while helping to cool and remove impurities within the engine.
Lubricating oil"Lubricating oil"is a broader term that can include oils used to lubricate any mechanical component. This includes not only engine oils, but also oils used to lubricate drivetrains, gearboxes, hydraulics, and more. Thus, lubricants can be a more generic term, while motor oils are a subclass of lubricants.
In practice, people usually refer to the lubricating oil used in the engine"Engine oil"to highlight its primary use. Overall, the two terms are often used interchangeably in the field of automotive maintenance and machinery.