How to Clean Severe Engine Sludge?

[MayaAnn]

Engine sludge can be cleaned by adding a sludge cleaner into the engine through the oil filler cap before an oil change, then idling the engine for 5 to 10 minutes before shutting it off to drain the cleaner along with the old oil. Engine sludge forms when large molecules polymerize under high-temperature operation, causing the oil to thicken and its viscosity to change, eventually leading to sludge buildup over time. Sludge formation is a normal phenomenon that occurs in all engines. Factors such as vehicle condition, operating conditions, fuel quality, and maintenance practices can significantly accelerate sludge formation.

[LaVivienne]

My experience with heavy engine sludge buildup is to buy a dedicated engine cleaner, add it to the old oil, and let the car idle for 15 minutes to break down the sludge. Then drain the old oil along with the sludge, replace it with new oil and a filter. The whole process takes about half an hour in the garage. The key is to use reputable brand products and not skimp on quality to avoid damaging the car. I do this every six months, and the car regains power much faster, running smoothly and more fuel-efficiently. It also saves money on trips to the repair shop, just be careful not to spill oil on yourself during the change.