The Importance of Changing Engine Oil After Motorcycles Are Submerged in Sumatra Floods

KatadataOTO – The North Sumatra flash flood disaster passed several weeks ago. However, its impact is still felt by the community there.

They lost relatives and possessions due to the natural disaster that struck the North Sumatra region at the end of 2025.

One of the things seen during the Sumatra flood was that many residents' motorcycles were submerged in mud for several days.

This made them unable to use their vehicles. They must be repaired first before they can be operated again.

Photo: Antara

Moreover, oil mixed with floodwater usually turns brownish or milky. This condition can cause rust on components inside the engine.

It can accelerate wear and tear, leading to serious damage, such as a seized engine or overheating in the motorcycle's engine.

Therefore, the engine oil must be changed after the vehicle has been submerged in a flood. The lubricant will lose its function and will not be able to protect engine components from friction and heat.

As a preventive measure, a motorcycle should not be started immediately after being submerged in a flood until it has been checked and the lubricant has been replaced at a workshop.

Based on the facts above, Federal Oil, a brand line of ExxonMobil Lubricants Indonesia (EMLI), is demonstrating its commitment to helping the victims of the North Sumatra flood.

The lubricant manufacturer has launched the 'Federal Oil Cares for Disasters' program. They are distributing hundreds of wearable clothes to affected residents in need.

In addition, they are also providing free oil changes for flood-affected motorcycles through the nearest partner workshops.