What consequence might arise from using engine oil that does not meet viscosity standards?

Using engine oil that does not meet the appropriate viscosity standards can lead to increased wear and tear on engine components. Viscosity is a critical property of engine oil that determines its thickness and ability to flow at different temperatures. If the viscosity is too low, the oil may not provide adequate lubrication, leading to insufficient protection against friction between moving parts. This can result in accelerated wear, overheating, and ultimately engine damage.

Properly formulated engine oils ensure that sufficient lubrication is maintained across a range of operating conditions, promoting longevity and performance of the engine. Oil that does not meet the required viscosity can compromise these protective qualities, resulting in parts wearing down more quickly due to increased friction.

While using the wrong viscosity oil could potentially affect fuel efficiency and performance, the most direct and notable consequence of this choice is the increased wear and tear on the engine, which can have serious long-term effects.