Do you know what oil sludge is and how it impacts the performance of your Volkswagen? Engine oil sludge is a term used to describe a thick substance that forms in your engine because of deteriorated oil. This is a very typical problem that if not corrected on time will bring about a lot of damage to your engine, and this will mean a lot of money spent on repairing your VW. So, how can this annoying issue be avoided?
What Is Oil Sludge?
Engine oil becomes sludgy as it ages and accumulates heat, dirt, as well as other contaminants. It coagulates and becomes sticky and tarry, sticking to engine parts, plugging oil circulation, and creating heat and friction. Oil sludge can form at a faster rate in any Volkswagen model, particularly those with turbocharged engines since such engines work at relatively high temperatures.
Failure to tackle oil sludge would result in negative effects such as engine failure. Fortunately, several measures can be taken to avoid the formation of oil sludge in your Volkswagen and ensure that your engine is always running as it should.
Ways to Avoid Oil Sludge Formation
- Stick to Regular Oil Changes: One way to prevent oil sludge is by changing your oil as often as possible or at least as prescribed by the manufacturer. Sludge is caused mostly by old, degraded oil, so new oil will help to keep your engine free of it. Most European vehicles like Volkswagen have a standard oil change interval of between 5,000 to 10,000 miles and it is advisable to stick to this duration. The type of oil to use is also very important. It is recommended that you always use synthetic oil that is recommended by Volkswagen because it endures higher temperatures and does not form sludge like conventional oil.
- Use Correct Oil Filter: Besides the frequency of oil changes, it is vital to use the correct oil filter. A good filter will capture contaminants and will not allow them to circulate within your engine and contribute to sludge. It is always important to use an oil filter that is suitable for your Volkswagen so as to get the right filtration.
- Avoid Short Trips: Short trips are bad as they lead to a build-up of sludge since the engine does not get to work at optimum temperature. It is always wise to group your errands in such a way that you take a longer trip to allow the engine to warm up and expel the contaminants.
- Don’t Ignore the Check Light: If you see the check engine light is on you should not dismiss it. This warning might mean that the oil pressure is low or the oil circulation is not good which may cause sludge to form on the engine. You should take your car to an expert so that it can be repaired and to avoid worse happening to it.
- Use Engine Flushes: Sometimes engine flush can be effective in washing off the sludge that has accumulated in the engine. However, this should only be done on the recommendation of a professional mechanic. If you have an indication that your Volkswagen has developed oil sludge, a mechanic can give you the right direction on whether to get an engine flush.
- Maintain the Cooling System: Your Volkswagen’s cooling system is very crucial in ensuring that it does not develop oil sludge because it maintains the right temperatures for the engine. Check that the coolant is at the right level and that the radiator and the hoses are okay. If there is overheating, the oil breakdown rate increases, and this will also increase sludge.
Keep Your Volkswagen Running Smoothly With Maintenance By EuroPro Experts
When there is an accumulation 
of oil sludge, there are several engine complications that may occur, however, with the right maintenance and prevention measures, your Volkswagen engine will be okay. At EuroPro, we have expertise in servicing and maintaining European vehicles including Volkswagen models to help our clients avoid hefty bills as a result of oil sludge.
We have multiple shops where we assist our customers, so if you reside in or around Myrtle Beach and Charleston, SC; or Wilmington, NC, we are here for you. Whether you need an oil change, a change of your car’s filter, or a general check-up of your VW engine, you can count on our skilled mechanics to keep your car running smoothly. Don’t lose time and power to oil sludge – book a maintenance session now!