How Often Should Engine Oil Passages Be Cleaned?
1 Answers
Engine oil passages are generally cleaned every 20,000 to 40,000 kilometers. The formation of oil sludge is a normal phenomenon, and any engine will produce oil sludge. The acceleration of oil sludge formation is closely related to vehicle condition, operating conditions, fuel quality, and vehicle maintenance. The following are the reasons that exacerbate engine oil sludge formation: Poor driving habits of the owner: Poor driving habits include frequently operating the engine at low temperatures or on short trips, frequent engine starts and stops, prolonged idling, and engine overheating. Under high temperatures, engine oil will oxidize more quickly. Improper vehicle maintenance: Using engine oil beyond its service life or failing to change it on time can lead to the formation of oxidized, insoluble substances under high temperatures, resulting in oil sludge. Improper use of engine oil, such as failing to keep it clean and dry or introducing impurities and moisture, can also contribute. During oil changes, old oil should be completely drained. Neglecting required maintenance, such as not replacing the three filters (air, oil, and fuel filters) regularly, can prevent maintaining a good internal engine environment. Poor-quality engine oil: Use high-quality lubricants produced by reputable manufacturers. PCV valve malfunction: The engine's crankcase ventilation valve is responsible for balancing crankcase pressure during high-speed operation. If the crankcase ventilation valve fails or becomes clogged, water vapor or other harmful pollutants inside the crankcase cannot be discharged in time. Through chemical reactions, this leads to the formation of oil sludge, creating a vicious cycle where the sludge becomes increasingly severe.
