How To Clean Engine Oil Sludge?

Last Updated on October 6, 2023 by Matthew Lloyd

Engine oil sludge is a common problem in older vehicles or those with irregular maintenance schedules. If handled promptly, it can cause reduced engine performance, lower fuel efficiency, and even failure. There are several ways to clean engine oil sludge, including using chemical cleaners or performing an engine flush.

Cleaning Engine Oil Sludge: Step-By-Step Instructions

Things Needed:

1. Safety goggles and gloves
2. A good quality engine degreaser
3. Rags or towels
4. A stiff-bristled brush
5. A scraper tool
6. An oil filter

Step 1. Park Your Car On A Flat Ground

Make sure that you are in a flat and stable location. This will ensure that your car stays put while you work on it.

Step 2. Jack Up Your Car

Find the appropriate jacking point under your vehicle and position the jack accordingly. Slowly raise the jack until it contacts the jacking point. Use jack stands to support your vehicle once it is lifted. Position one on either side of the car and adjusts them to match the height of your jacked-up car’s frame. Make sure they are securely positioned before lowering your vehicle onto them.

Step 3. Drain Out The Old Oil

Ensure your car has cooled down for at least 30 minutes to avoid scalding accidents. Locate the drain plug underneath your car’s oil pan and remove it using a wrench or socket. Be careful not to lose any gaskets or washers that come with them.

Once you’ve removed the drain plug, wait for all the old oil to flow out completely. You can also tilt your car slightly to help drain every last drop of old oil from the engine. While you’re waiting, take this time to inspect and clean other parts near the drain plug, such as the oil filter and magnet. This will allow you to check if any metal shavings or debris need further attention.

Step 4. Fill The Engine With Diesel Or Kerosene

Both kerosene and diesel have excellent solvency properties, which work to dissolve the accumulated sludge in the engine. Gently pour in enough diesel or kerosene until it fills the crankcase. Allow it to sit for at least fifteen minutes to penetrate and dissolve any sludge buildup.

Step 5. Start The Engine

After fifteen minutes, start your car and let it idle for about twenty minutes. This will allow the solvents to circulate throughout your engine system and break down any remaining debris before draining everything out again.

Step 6. Drain Out The Homemade Flush

Locate the oil pan underneath your vehicle and place a container beneath it to collect the waste fluid. Ensure no remaining fluids are left by letting gravity do its job for around five minutes after draining.

Step 7. Replace The Oil Filter

Choose a high-quality replacement designed for your specific vehicle’s make and model. This will help ensure that it fits properly and provides optimal filtration performance. Before installing the new filter, lubricate its gasket with fresh motor oil to prevent leaks.

Step 8. Pour High-Quality Motor Oil Into The Engine

When adding new motor oil, ensure you do not overfill it, which can lead to engine damage and reduce lifespan. Always check your vehicle’s dipstick after pouring fresh oil until you reach the recommended level.

Once you have poured in fresh quality motor oil, start your engine and let it run for a few minutes while monitoring any leaks or irregularities in performance.

What Causes Oil Sludge?

Extended Oil Change Intervals:

When the oil in your engine is not changed frequently enough, it can break down and become contaminated with dirt, debris, and other contaminants. This contaminated oil can then form into sludge over time.

Driving Conditions:

Repeated short trips or stop-and-go traffic can keep an engine from reaching its full operating temperature long enough to evaporate any moisture that may have accumulated inside the motor. This moisture can mix with the oil and form harmful deposits over time.

Engine Oil Sludge Symptoms

Decrease In Engine Performance:

Sludge buildup can cause blockages in the oil passages, slowing the oil flow and reducing its ability to lubricate important engine components properly. This can lead to reduced acceleration and horsepower and increased fuel consumption.

Increased Emissions:

If your car’s exhaust emits black smoke or has a strong odor, it could be a sign that your engine has an excess build-up of oil sludge. This can occur when the excess sludge combusts with fuel and air during combustion.

Ticking Or Clicking Noise From The Tappet: 

If you hear a ticking or clicking noise from your engine’s tappet, it may indicate engine oil sludge buildup. Engine oil sludge is formed due to the accumulation of dirt, debris, and other contaminants in the engine’s oil system. This buildup can lead to restricted oil flow, which then causes excessive wear and tear on the engine parts.

Low Oil Pressure And Warning Light 

Engine oil sludge can clog the passages within the engine, causing low oil pressure and triggering the warning light.

Why Is It Important To Clean Engine Oil Sludge?

One of the most important reasons to clean engine oil sludge is to ensure your vehicle’s long-term health and performance. Over time, sludge buildup can cause serious damage to critical engine components, leading to costly repairs or even complete engine failure.

How To Prevent Engine Sludge?

Change your oil regularly: Old oil can break down and become contaminated with debris, contributing to sludge buildup.

Use high-quality motor oil: Low-quality or cheap oils may not have the necessary additives and detergents to keep your engine clean and sludge-free. Properly keeping your vehicle’s cooling system is essential, as overheating can contribute significantly to engine sludge formation.

Drive with Care: Driving with care is one of the best ways to prevent future build-up. This means avoiding sudden acceleration or braking and maintaining a consistent driving speed.

How Often Should You Replace Oil?

Generally, most manufacturers recommend getting an oil change every 5,000-7,500 miles or every six months. However, if you drive in harsh conditions such as extreme temperatures or dusty environments, you may need to change your oil more frequently. Additionally, synthetic oils last longer than conventional oils and can go up to 10,000 miles before needing a change.

Conclusion

Cleaning engine oil sludge can be a tedious process, but it is essential for the longevity and health of your vehicle. Remember that prevention is key to avoiding the future build-up of sludge. Regularly changing your oil and using high-quality oils can significantly reduce the chances of sludge formation.