The High Cost Of Ignoring Engine Sludge Symptoms

By Annabelle Holman

Passing a driving test has become a rite of passage for young adults, who often see only the excitement, independence and increased peer status of having personal transportation. At that point in life the boring, mundane details of vehicle maintenance may seem unimportant, until neglect results in expensive and time-consuming repairs. Engine sludge symptoms are a warning sign that trouble may be brewing.

Admonishing new drivers to change the oil every three thousand miles has become standard practice, even though it is not really necessary. The chemistry of oil as well as engines themselves have changed radically since the era when that advice actually mattered. Many newer vehicles can easily travel ten thousand miles before the lubricant becomes sub-par, but that particular number should never be taken literally.

Oil loses the ability to lubricate properly when vehicle operation includes predominately short trips, quick starts and stops, long idles, cold weather operation, and road conditions that are not optimal. In other words, the life of an oil change depends on individual driving habits and location. Longer than advisable periods between changes allow the oil to grow progressively dirty, and sludge may begin to build.

Oil begins to break down immediately after being installed. Synthetic varieties combat this process most effectively, but even the longest-lasting must undergo periodic filtration. The main culprit is a process called oxidation, which speeds up during difficult driving conditions or high heat. The result is a gelatinous goo that contains solids, liquids, and gases, as well as burnt carbon residuals and metal particulates.

When this continues over extended periods due to neglect or environmental stresses, the gooey, gel-like substance can spread. Much like human arteries that become blocked with cholesterol, mechanical parts no longer operate efficiently. Baked on deposits eventually begin to strangle narrow passageways, and performance begins to suffer noticeably. Instead of lubricating, the oil causes overheating, and eventual damage.

No one wants to see warning lights on the dashboard. Regular oil changes and related routine maintenance may not always be convenient, but remain the best way to prevent trouble related to lubrication. The cost of replacing the engine is far higher, and is time-consuming as well. In some cases, however, cars develop internal sludge even when maintenance suggestions are followed precisely.

This perplexing problem has plagued many auto makers, and has resulted in publicized legal action. The resulting investigations revealed no smoking industry gun, but instead pointed to individual design issues that affect only certain makes and models. Although this problem pales in comparison to recent safety issues that have sparked massive recalls, it can create real problems for people in the market for a used vehicle.

Before buying a used vehicle, have it checked by a mechanic for signs of previous engine flushing. Be sure to check the maintenance records closely, and avoid vehicles that have been neglected. When considering a new car or truck, using synthetic lubricant blends may prevent buildup, especially when daily use includes cold weather or stop-and-go driving. Sludge buildup is not inevitable, and need not ruin a car.

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