Following this could stop your motor oil turning into black sludge.

Although less common at the moment several have experienced severe problems with motor oil turning into black sludge. Although there are wide ranging opinions about how to prevent or overcome this there are a few precautions that everyone agrees with.

What initiates motor oil turning into black sludge?

The problem with motor oil turning into black sludge was first noticed in Europe during the cold winter months. After carefully studying the phenomena Audi , who’s engines were particularly prone to sludge build up, made several findings that can prevent or reduce the chances of motor oil turning into black sludge.

Slow driving cycles, such as in congested city driving, increases the chances of blow-by (Combustion gases and contaminants – including unburned fuel, bypassing the piston rings and ending up in the sump). At the same time slow speed driving often creates extreme temperatures under the hood: either too cold, not allowing the engine to reach operating temperature, or too hot, such as when the ambient temperatures are high and the vehicle’s moving very slowly.

Regular engine oil oxidises quite rapidly at elevated temperatures, at the same time depleting several of the additives in the oil. These conditions create an environment that is conducive to motor oil turning into black sludge.

How to prevent motor oil turning into black sludge.

Although certain engines are more prone to black sludge build up, it is something that can affect any engine.

One of the most important factors when talking about motor oil turning into black sludge is to regularly monitor the condition of the oil. This can be done by inspecting the oil on the dipstick and removing the filler cap to inspect the condition of the oil in this area. The oil can be dark in colour, but must not show any signs of thickening.
 Try and avoid driving regularly at slow speeds under high ambient temperatures.

If you have to operate the vehicle under harsh conditions, such as high ambient temperatures in congested traffic, it’s important to service the vehicle regularly, in particular WRT engine oil changes.

One of the most effective ways to stop motor oil turning into black sludge is to use a good quality synthetic engine oil, such as that supplied by Habot Synthetic Lubricants. This synthetic engine lubricant is chemically engineered and is extremely stable under wide ranging operating temperatures. The additives used in blending these oils are also more stable and are not depleted as rapidly as those used in regular engine lubricants. Although slightly more expensive the benefits offered by synthetic motor oils in preventing motor oil turning into black sludge make this the preferred route.