If your check engine light comes on, you know you have problems. If your vehicle stops running, you know you have engine trouble. If you hear a cacophony of clanks coming from under the hood, you know you’re going to need to get your car to a foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR.
But did you know your oil can also tell you if you are having engine problems? Looking at this liquid can give you a good idea of what is going on with your vehicle. Use the following guide to dip into this method of engine maintenance.
Look for Sludge
Engine sludge is a car killer. This goop develops on and around the motor when oil breaks down. When in this state, the oil no longer properly lubricates the parts of your engine. Instead, the sludge buildup eventually causes engine failure.
To prevent this breakdown, watch for signs of sludge buildup. First, keep an eye out for the oil change notification and the check engine light on your dash. Don’t ignore these signs that your vehicle needs maintenance. Either of these lights might indicate the presence of engine sludge.
Next, check under the hood regularly. Look for signs of sludge or oil splatter. Sludge is thick and dark and is usually found in clumps.
Lastly, check your oil pan. Take off the cap and inspect the interior. Are the contents clean? The walls should be covered in oil but still metallic, not smeared with sludge. If you see signs of sludge buildup, it’s time to take your car to a foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR for an oil change.
Prevent Sludge
There are a few things you can do to prevent this sludge buildup and keep your car running smoothly. The most important step is to perform regular maintenance on your vehicle. Visit your foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR regularly for oil changes. If the oil and filter are not changed according to the schedule suggested by your manufacturer, engine sludge starts to build up.
A second tip to prevent engine sludge is to minimize stop-and-go driving. If you can walk or bike for short commutes or errands, do so. This will spare your car the strenuous work of stop-and-go traffic, which contributes to engine sludge buildup.
Finally, partner with your foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR to keep your engine sludge-free. As you perform the checks listed above, act immediately if you notice the beginnings of sludge formation. Don’t let it build up and destroy your engine. Contact your expert technicians right away to clean up your engine and keep it in optimal condition.
Partner with the Pros
When your oil is communicating a problem, don’t hesitate to contact the team at Riverdale Automotive. We provide premier services exclusively for your European vehicle. Our team is dedicated to delivering the highest quality services for Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen vehicles. Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our highly trained technicians.