What It Is and Why You Don't Want It!
Don't let sludge damage your engine. As unpleasant as it sounds, engine sludge is contamination and buildup that occurs over time with normal use. Enjoy frequent, reliable oil change services in your area to prevent this buildup from damaging your engine and reducing your horsepower and fuel efficiency.
What Is Engine Sludge?
This unpleasant sediment comes from congealed oil and additive breakdown. Over time, motor oil breakdown causes both hard and soft sludge to build up in your engine, which can reduce the efficiency of your oil and cause moving parts to stick.
Older vehicles may have more buildup, particularly if you're using conventional oil from a budget brand. Most oil includes additives to help clean and lubricate your motor, but even these additives can break apart and create sludge.
While synthetic oil reduces the amount of engine sludge, no oil brand, weight or type will prevent sludge buildup. The best protection strategy for your engine is to schedule routine oil changes. Ask your local auto shop about oil options and be sure you receive a new oil filter with your oil. If your vehicle has over 75,000 miles, switch to high mileage oil for added protection.
Why Is It Dangerous?
Insufficient lubrication is a major cause of engine breakdown. The most common cause of sludge is waiting too long to change your oil. If left alone, this will prevent your engine from receiving proper lubrication. Over time, expect complete engine failure.
Find out how your climate and other factors affect your oil change routine. In the past, all vehicles received new oil every 3,000 miles or three months. Modern vehicles need a change between 1,000 and 15,000 miles, depending on driving habits, oil type and other factors.
How To Keep Your Engine Clean in Lakeway, Texas
Routine maintenance and reliable oil change services prevent oil sludge buildup and engine failure. Schedule a service at Austin's Automotive Specialists in Lakeway, Texas for an affordable oil change. We use leading brands and offer full inspections to help prevent engine issues as you drive. Ask our ASE certified technicians about any maintenance concerns and enjoy friendly service from your local, family-owned auto shop.