Need the Right Oil Change?
Even though automakers are extending the recommended oil change intervals, it is still important to check the oil level between oil changes. If this service is neglected, motors can become clogged with sludge and varnish.
Take a look at the following issues:
- Oil Level Sensors – The oil level sensor warns the driver when the oil level is critically low. However, it is still important to check the oil level whenever the vehicle is being serviced just in case the sensor is not working properly. If the level is dirty or the interval has nearly expired, go ahead and have the recommended oil change or other routine maintenance. If the level is a little low but is clean, it may only need to be topped-off. Inspect for leaks or other signs of oil consumption and follow the appropriate service recommendations.
- Oil Life Monitor – Modern oil life monitors use information from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to measure oil life, which can actually extend the oil change interval to 10,000 miles or more. However, it is still important to meet manufacturer specifications because the oil may not last as long as the monitor calculates it will. In some cases, sludge/varnish buildup can indicate a malfunctioning monitor. When this happens, a shorter oil change interval is recommended.
- Oil Deposit Control – Modern gasoline and oil is formulated to prevent carbon from forming in the combustion chamber, piston rings from sticking and oil additives from contaminating the catalytic converter. Modern engines use low tension piston rings to reduce wear on the cylinders. Unfortunately, if the wrong type of oil is used, the tension rings will tend to stick.
- Oil Life Issues – Neglecting oil changes can ruin an engine. As oil accumulates miles, it becomes contaminated and forms sludge. Cold engine operation accelerates the formation of sludge. At high speeds, sludge often clogs the oil filter and other parts of the oil system, causing severe damage to the engine. Unfortunately, detergents in fresh oil may often speed up clogging by loosening accumulated sludge. You are the best bet when dealing with a clogged engine it to replace or rebuild it.
Unfortunately, some vehicle owners take the cheap way out when it comes to quality oil changes. But in the long run, having the right oil change will cost less than having to replace or rebuild your engine.
Need to know more about the right oil change for your vehicle? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about oil changes and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
Even though automakers are extending the recommended oil change intervals, it is still important to check the oil level between oil changes. If this service is neglected, motors can become clogged with sludge and varnish.
Take a look at the following issues:
- Oil Level Sensors – The oil level sensor warns the driver when the oil level is critically low. However, it is still important to check the oil level whenever the vehicle is being serviced just in case the sensor is not working properly. If the level is dirty or the interval has nearly expired, go ahead and have the recommended oil change or other routine maintenance. If the level is a little low but is clean, it may only need to be topped-off. Inspect for leaks or other signs of oil consumption and follow the appropriate service recommendations.
- Oil Life Monitor – Modern oil life monitors use information from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) to measure oil life, which can actually extend the oil change interval to 10,000 miles or more. However, it is still important to meet manufacturer specifications because the oil may not last as long as the monitor calculates it will. In some cases, sludge/varnish buildup can indicate a malfunctioning monitor. When this happens, a shorter oil change interval is recommended.
- Oil Deposit Control – Modern gasoline and oil is formulated to prevent carbon from forming in the combustion chamber, piston rings from sticking and oil additives from contaminating the catalytic converter. Modern engines use low tension piston rings to reduce wear on the cylinders. Unfortunately, if the wrong type of oil is used, the tension rings will tend to stick.
- Oil Life Issues – Neglecting oil changes can ruin an engine. As oil accumulates miles, it becomes contaminated and forms sludge. Cold engine operation accelerates the formation of sludge. At high speeds, sludge often clogs the oil filter and other parts of the oil system, causing severe damage to the engine. Unfortunately, detergents in fresh oil may often speed up clogging by loosening accumulated sludge. You are the best bet when dealing with a clogged engine it to replace or rebuild it.
Unfortunately, some vehicle owners take the cheap way out when it comes to quality oil changes. But in the long run, having the right oil change will cost less than having to replace or rebuild your engine.
Need to know more about the right oil change for your vehicle? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Clausen Automotive, The Hybrid Shop, for more information about oil changes and to schedule an appointment. Since 1975, our family-owned auto shop has proudly served vehicle owners in Madison, WI, and the surrounding communities.
