You Put Mud In Your Engine? -- West Automotive Group
In general, cars aren't cheap. You likely paid a hefty sum to get that cute sports car for an exciting drive. Or a four-wheel drive truck for off-roading or towing a load. You wanted a perfect sedan for the commute or minivan to haul half the soccer team. You'd like for your vehicle to last a long time, right? Of course! So would you pour mud into the engine? Of course not! But if you aren't changing your motor oil on a regular basis, you may be allowing sludge, a substance that somewhat resembles mud, to develop. You can get a routine oil change and other preventive maintenance services at West Automotive Group in Miramar, California. If you already have a sludge problem, our certified technicians can help you with remedying that issue, as well.
Oil’s Function
Motor oil is vital to your engine's health. It's important that your auto has a sufficient supply of clean oil at all times. The oil serves three important functions. First, it lubricates the moving metal parts, reducing friction. This helps prevent damage to the engine components as well as keeps tiny metal particles from shaving off and circulating around. Second, the oil absorbs and removes a great deal of the engine’s heat produced by friction. Heat reduction helps keep the metal parts from warping. Lastly, the oil grabs the dirt and debris in the engine, suspending it and holding it away from the parts it can damage.
How Sludge Can Develop
Motor oil is great at protecting your engine, but it can break down as it ages. (Age is a product of both time and mileage.) When it begins to break down, it can no longer perform its intended functions as well. Instead of collecting dirt and suspending it, the dirt is allowed to combine with the degraded oil and circulate or deposit. That dark goo is called sludge. It lurks inside your engine, likely causing damage. In severe cases, it may be seen coating portions of the engine's exterior.
How To Remove Sludge
Some car owners try to remove sludge themselves. This is done with a commercially produced engine flush product that is available where automotive products are sold. The additive goes into the engine along with the old oil, and the car is allowed to idle for about ten minutes. Once the auto is turned off, the oil and filter are changed, and fresh oil is added. Perhaps a better solution is to get professional help with removing sludge from your engine before it chokes the life out of your car. The ASE and ATRA certified technicians at West Automotive Group in Miramar, California, are well prepared to get your engine clean once more.
