Did You Know? Oil Sludge

Oil sludge or sludge in a car engine cannot be underestimated. Thick sludge in the engine can interfere with the slow performance of the engine and can also close small gaps where the engine lubricant runs. In addition, the sludge in the engine can also pose a risk of wear and tear on the engine due to the large frictional force caused.

What can cause oil sludge in a car engine?

Oil sludge or sludge in a car engine is caused by deposits of dirt from combustion residues or oil crusts that are mixed again with new lubricants. Afterward, these deposits will clump together in the form of mud that sticks to the walls or other materials in the engine.

The following are common causes of oil sludge or sludge in the engine:

1. Choosing the Wrong Oil. Mistakes in choosing lubricants for car engines can also cause sludge to appear in car engines. This is because each car engine has a different engine density. For example, Low Cost Green Car (LCGC) cars with tight engine construction, according to the manufacturer, this type of vehicle is suitable for using lubricants with SAE 0W-20 or SAE 5W-30 oil specifications which have thinner oil viscosity.
2. Using Fake Oil. In choosing engine lubricants, you should be more careful. Currently, there are many counterfeit oils on the market. If you get fake oil and use it continuously in your favorite car, it is certain that the car engine will experience oil sludge due to deposits of dirt residue that continues to stick in the engine.
3. Never Change the Oil Filter. The oil filter has an important role in the engine. This part filters out impurities contained in the oil before it re-enters the engine to provide lubricating power. Usually, the oil filter must be replaced every two engine oil changes.
4. Late Oil Change. The oil in the engine will become dirty with use. If the oil is not changed, deposits and dirt will accumulate. This makes the appearance of oil sludge on the engine wall.

Those are some of the causes of oil sludge that you should know so that your car does not experience the same thing. Apart from blocking the flow of oil to the engine, this oil sludge will later have an impact on the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. This means that your car will use more gasoline than usual. Not only that, damage to the engine and other spare parts can also potentially be damaged due to this oil sludge. So to avoid oil sludge in your vehicle, don't forget to change the oil regularly and use the original engine oil.

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