Many of us have heard about the importance of changing your oil on a regular basis.
This form of maintenance helps prevent engine damage and takes care of parts that run off oil pressure.
Another benefit? Oil changes prevent sludge from accumulating on items and blocking channels.
Where can you find sludge?
Sludge is old oil that typically collects in cooler areas of the engine.
Some common places it may be found are the valve train and valve cover, where oil can sit up and cool.
We also see it in the oil pan from extended oil changes.
Sometimes, oil coagulates around the oil control ring, causing it to seize up in its channel in the piston. This will keep oil in the combustion chamber and lead to oil consumption problems.
The variable valve timing (VVT) solenoid has screens on it that sludge can get in. We might discover it in the oil lines for the turbos, too.
Sludge buildup symptoms
Sludge on Honda Accord dipstick
You might notice that the oil appears thick when checking your oil.
Sometimes, an automotive technician will notice sludge as they look over a vehicle. We saw it on a Honda Accord’s dipstick and oil cap.
Sludge buildup indicators can also present themselves. These signs include:
- Check engine light
- Engine performance issues
- Camshaft actuator codes
- Problems with the timing chain tensioners
- Oil pressure light
Oil consumption and oil pressure problems are the main concerns drivers might run into. In the case of oil consumption, you may be putting in a quart or more of oil every 1,000 miles to maintain the oil level. This is unhealthy for the engine.
If you have a lot of sludge, it could start clogging up the oil pump and result in an oil pressure issue. Problems with the oil pressure or oil level can trigger the oil pressure light.
Camshaft actuator codes might appear, as well. One example is the P0010 “A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit code.
That’s a common one where the actuator is trying to advance the timing. If it gets low in oil, it will try to advance timing to keep up with the demands of your right foot input. It will start setting check engine lights because it’s gone beyond what its parameters allow.
How to keep sludge from collecting
Oil change on Acura ILX
We mentioned regular oil changes as one way to avoid sludge buildup. It’s a good idea to have them performed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. When you bring your vehicle in for an oil change, make sure the shop uses high quality oil.
Another option is adding BG MOA, a supplement that gives engines extra protection.
Sludge buildup is more likely to occur on certain cars. For these vehicles, we suggest Dynamic Engine Restoration Service.
When performing Dynamic Engine Restoration Service, our technicians add engine cleaner and run the vehicle for certain lengths of time.
They also make sure the oil pressure doesn’t decrease, which might indicate that the oil pump suction line strainer is clogged.
When it comes to engine oil, good car maintenance is a must. Make sure to keep track of when another oil change is needed and see if your mechanic has any recommendations for your specific vehicle.
Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.
