Oil sludge
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Oil sludge is a solid or gel in motor oil caused by the oil gelling or solidifying, usually at temperatures lower than 100 degrees Celsius. Sludge can be a major contributor to engine problems, and can require the engine to be replaced if the damage is severe. Sludge is usually caused by the presence of water in the oil, and can accumulate with use. Ways to minimize sludge production and accumulation include performing frequent oil changes, using synthetic oil, and following the manufacturer's engine maintenance routine.
The following engines were reported by the Center for Auto Safety and/or their manufacturers to have a problem with sludge accumulation:
- 1998-2002 Chrysler 2.7 L LH V6
- 2001-2002 Dodge Stratus/Chrysler Sebring
- 1998-2002 Dodge Intrepid/Chrysler Concorde
- 1998-2003 Saab H engine B205/B235 I4
- 1998-2003 Saab 9-5 B235 2.3 L
- 1999 Saab Viggen B235 2.3 L
- 2000-2002 Saab 9-3 B205 2.0 L
- 2000-2003 Saab 9-3 convertible B205 2.0 L
- 1996-2001 Toyota 3.0 L 1MZ V6
- August 1996-July 2001 Toyota Camry
- June 1998-May 2001 Toyota Camry Solara
- July 1997-May 2001 Toyota Sienna
- July 1996-May 2001 Toyota Avalon
- November 2000-July 2001 Toyota Highlander
- August 1998-July 2001 Lexus ES300
- January 1998-July 2001 Lexus RX300
- 1996-2001 Toyota 5SFE I4
- August 1996-July 2001 Toyota Camry
- June 1998-May 2001 Toyota Camry Solara
- August 1996-April 1999 Toyota Celica
- 1997-2004 Volkswagen VW 1.8t I4
- 1997-2004 Audi A4 1.8t
- 1998-2004 Volkswagen Passat 1.8t
