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Engine oil change is crucial because there are a lot of additives in the oil that become dirty and essentially wear out causing the lubricating properties that protect the engine to diminish. This results in some metal parts to be eaten away and water being retained in the crankcase which results in sludge.

The sludge mixture will just keep building up by attracting more abrasive particles and then wear down the engine instead of protecting it like clean oil does.

This is why changing your oil at specified intervals and more frequently than the manufactures recommendations if you drive less frequent or in abnormal conditions like stop start traffic is so important.

Oil Change Replaces:

detergents

dispersant additives

viscosity additives

anti scuff or friction modifiers

corrosion inhibitors

If your vehicle is used a lot for short trips and doesn’t reach operating temperature often before you turn the engine off then it is advisable to change the oil more frequently than what the manufacturer recommends to get the most out of your engine.





For general driving of the vehicle every 5,000 kilometers or 3,000 miles is a good rule of thumb before you really need to change the engine oil.

Non Synthetic Oil Change Interval

For older cars using non synthetics, say no more than every 5,000 kilometers or 3,000 miles.

Synthetic Oil Change Interval

With more advanced engine design and better oil formulations like fully synthetics, manufacturers are always increasing the oil-change intervals. It is still highly recommended to check the oil yourself frequently and have it changed more frequently too. With newer cars say no more than every 10,000 kilometers or 6,000 miles just to be on the safe side.

Two Quick Ways To Check For Water In Engine Oil Symptoms

With the head gasket sealing the bottom half of the engine with the top half a bit like the meat in the sandwich its 3 main functions are to seal water, oil and compression.

When checking used cars be sure to check for water in engine oil. The engine oil dipstick and under the engine oil cap are quick and easy ways to check for water in engine oil.

If you look under the engine oil filler cap and on the engine oil dipstick for a white milky appearance similar to a creamy chocolate milkshake it indicates internal engine problems like a blown head gasket.

You Can Have Oil In Water Too

Oil in water is usually a bigger problem when it comes to cleaning the sludge from the engine cooling system and radiator. When you open the cooling system cap or radiator cap have a look for oil in the water and around the cap. Also beware of any quick fixes like the owner or seller using automotive additives or head gasket sealers. These work like magic in many cases but they are a quick fix.