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Engine Oil Sludge Build Up: The Dangers and How to Avoid Them.

Dave Hopkins Auto Repairs share many of the mechanical issues that can occur in your vehicle and why it's important to have your car regularly serviced.

Normal combustion engines create gases, water vapor, fuel fragments and acids inside the engine.

These are held in suspension in the motor oil. If the oil is changed at regular intervals, most of the sludge particles are drained away with the used oil. However, if the oil is not changed regularly, over time the by-products form sludge.

Engine oil sludge build up is a common issue for many car owners, and if not taken care of, it can cause severe problems. Engine oil is an essential component of your car's operation as it helps lubricate various engine parts, reducing friction and keeping them running smoothly. Over time, the oil can break down, become contaminated with dirt and debris, and turn into a thick sludge.

An example of engine oil sludge

Sludge build-up within your engine can cause:-

  • restriction to the oil pick up
  • blockage of the oil filter
  • reduced engine lubrication
  • a decrease in engine performance
  • increase in engine noise
  • reduced fuel efficiency
  • reduced cooling ability of the oil causing an increased strain on the cooling system

So what happens when you don't service your car's oil regularly and the sludge builds up? Here are three problems that you could face:

1. Engine damage: The sludge can clog up the oil pump pick-up screen and oil passages, leading to oil starvation and engine damage. It can also cause parts to wear out faster than they should, such as bearings, piston rings, and camshafts, leading to costly repairs.

2. Reduced fuel efficiency: Engine oil sludge can lead to a significant decrease in fuel efficiency. Sludge makes the engine work harder than necessary, using more fuel than it should, and ultimately affecting your wallet.

3. Safety hazards: Engine oil sludge can also cause safety hazards such as overheating, which could result in engine fires or a sudden loss of power while driving, leading to accidents.

Preventing engine oil sludge build-up is simple and can save you time and money in the long run. Regular oil changes every 5,000 kms or three months will keep your engine oil fresh and help prevent sludge build-up. Also, ensure to use the recommended oil viscosity and oil filter type by the car manufacturer.

We recommend regular engine oil and oil filter replacement. In vehicles with low regular mileage, we also recommend the use of an engine flush additive before replacing the engine oil.

Speak to our team at Dave Hopkins Auto Repairs to see what is best for your vehicle.

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