Which engine component stores oil for lubrication?

The oil pan is the component responsible for storing oil for lubrication in an engine. It acts as a reservoir that collects and holds the engine oil when the engine is not running and ensures there is a sufficient supply of lubricant available for the engine components when it is in operation.

When the engine runs, the oil is drawn from the oil pan by the oil pump, which circulates it throughout the engine to lubricate moving parts, reduce friction, and help dissipate heat. This system is essential in maintaining the smooth operation and longevity of the engine. The oil filter also plays a vital role, as it helps clean the oil, removing contaminants before it is circulated, but it does not store the oil itself. Oil galleries are the channels within the engine that the oil flows through, and while they are critical in directing the oil where it needs to go, they do not serve as storage. Therefore, the oil pan is definitively the component designated for oil storage.