It’s a common question, especially among budget-conscious or first-time chainsaw users: “Can I use old motor oil in place of proper bar and chain oil?”
Technically, yes—you can. But should you? In almost every case, the answer is a strong no.
If you’re using a compact tool like the Micter 6-inch cordless mini chainsaw, keeping it clean, well-lubricated, and efficient matters more than ever. Here’s what you need to know before pouring used oil into your bar oil reservoir.
Why Bar and Chain Oil Is Different
Bar and chain oil isn’t just any oil—it’s specifically formulated to stick to the chain as it spins at high speed. It contains additives called tackifiers that help it stay on the bar and chain instead of flying off into the air. That clingy texture is exactly what your saw needs to stay cool, cut efficiently, and protect internal components from damage.
In contrast, used motor oil is:
- Thin and runny—it doesn’t “cling” well
- Filled with impurities and metal particles from your engine
- Lacking the high-temperature lubrication additives required for chain drive systems
- Prone to spraying everywhere during use, especially on high-speed tools like chainsaws
Bottom line: Bar oil lubricates and protects. Used motor oil mostly just makes a mess.
What Happens If You Use Used Motor Oil?
Using old engine oil in your mini chainsaw—even just once—can cause the following problems:
- Increased chain and bar wear due to poor lubrication
- Oil pump clogging from sludge or particles
- Sticky buildup on the saw’s exterior
- Environmental contamination if used outdoors
- Inhalation risk if oil mist becomes airborne while cutting
While some old-school users may have done this “in a pinch,” it’s not a long-term solution—and it’s definitely not a good practice for modern electric mini chainsaws like Micter.
“But It’s Free…”
Sure, pouring in used oil from your last car change may seem like a way to save a few bucks. But if you’re using a cordless chainsaw with an auto-lubrication system—like the Micter 6-inch mini chainsaw—those savings disappear quickly if the oil clogs the pump or shortens the life of your chain and guide bar.
A jug of bar oil costs around $10–$15 and lasts for many cutting sessions. Compare that to the cost of replacing a chain, a worn bar, or worse—your entire saw.
Is It Ever Okay to Use Motor Oil?
If you’re truly in an emergency situation—such as storm cleanup in a remote area with no stores open—and you have absolutely nothing else, using clean, fresh motor oil (not used) is better than running dry. But even then:
- Only use a small amount
- Clean the saw thoroughly afterward
- Replace with real bar oil as soon as possible
Never rely on this as your routine.
For Your Micter Mini Chainsaw: Stick to the Right Oil
Micter’s 6-inch mini chainsaw is built with an external oiler system that delivers oil directly to the chain during use. To keep it running smoothly, always fill the reservoir with high-quality bar and chain oil—preferably one that matches the season (lighter oil in winter, heavier in summer).
This keeps the chain gliding cleanly across the bar, reduces wear, and helps your tool last longer.
Conclusion
Used motor oil might seem like a shortcut, but it’s a risky trade-off. It doesn’t protect your chainsaw the way bar and chain oil does—and it can lead to mechanical problems, poor performance, and messy cleanup.
If you want your mini chainsaw to cut clean, run efficiently, and last longer, do it right from the start. Save the old oil for the recycling bin—and stick with real bar oil for your Micter chainsaw.
