Oil sludge buildup in your Volkswagen is dangerous for your vehicle and its continued longevity. Oil filters are meant to catch any contaminants or debris before they reach your Volkswagen’s engine system, so when it malfunctions it can mean bad news for your vehicle.
The good news is that preventive maintenance is increasingly effective for preventing oil sludge buildup in your Volkswagen. Regular practices, like frequent oil changes and changes in driving habits, can lead to big rewards in the overall health of your Volkswagen’s engine, including the avoidance of oil sludge buildup. While you can purchase an engine oil sludge remover after the fact, preventing this occurrence is the better route.
Identifying Oil Sludge Buildup in Your Volkswagen’s Engine
Most Volkswagen owners aren’t on the lookout for oil sludge buildup in their vehicle’s engine, as it’s nearly impossible to identify without a trained eye. However, there are a few commonplace signs that you will notice as indications when your Volkswagen begins to experience oil sludge buildup that affects its performance.
- Check Engine Light: One of the most obvious signs that something is going on with your vehicle from oil sludge buildup is the illumination of our vehicle’s check engine light. Although you may not be able to identify oil sludge as the cause of your problem, this is an indication that you need to have your Volkswagen checked out for underlying issues that are generating this response.
- Oil Splatters Under the Hood or On the Outside of Your Vehicle: It isn’t normal to have engine oil spattered about your Volkswagen, so when you pop the hood and notice oil splatters underneath, it should be cause for concern. Sometimes, with enough force, these splatters will have migrated to the outside of your vehicle, too. Oil sludge will have the appearance of thick and dark oil that may also be present in clumps or chunks, depending on its age and location. Engine sludge on the exterior of your engine is a direct indication that it is occurring internally, too.
- Engine Sludge in the Oil Pan: If you suspect engine sludge buildup, you can do a simple pre-evaluation by yourself by removing the oil cap from the oil pan and taking a peek inside. With help from a flashlight, you should be able to see any engine sludge buildup if there are high enough levels to be noted in your engine.
- Preventing Engine Oil Sludge Buildup: Even better than inspecting your vehicle for signs of engine oil sludge buildup is preventing it altogether. Below are a few steps you can follow to reduce the likelihood that you will have engine oil sludge buildup in your vehicle.
- Change Your Volkswagen’s Oil Frequently: By following a schedule, you can directly control the buildup of engine oil sludge, or lack thereof, in your Volkswagen. Whether you change the oil or you take your vehicle to an experienced mechanic, you should always be on the lookout for engine oil sludge or shavings in your oil.
- Avoid Constant Stop and Go Driving: Rather than driving in stop-and-go traffic in the city, park, and bike or walk, if you can. Shorter commutes that are full of braking and pressing the gas pedal are hard on your engine and can lead to excessive engine oil sludge buildup.
- Use an Engine Oil Sludge Remover: This should only be done by Volkswagen owners who know what they’re doing and are aware of the reasons for using this tool. These products are available at many auto parts stores, but if you want to make sure you’re doing what’s best for your engine, it’s best to consult with a professional first.
Count on Hagan’s Motor Pool to Prevent Engine Oil Sludge Buildup in Your Volkswagen
Life gets busy, and it’s easy to forget to schedule preventive maintenance appointments for your Volkswagen. The professionals 
at Hagan’s Motor Pool can help keep you on a schedule, send reminders, and assist in the prevention of engine oil sludge buildup in your VW model. Our expert technicians know the ins and outs of German vehicles, like your Volkswagen, so they are especially skilled in the care of these vehicle types.
Offering complete maintenance programs for Volkswagen owners in Alton, Barrington, Berwick, Dover, and Rochester in the state of New Hampshire, Hagan’s Motor Pool is committed to making your VW last longer than you ever thought possible. If you’d like an evaluation for engine oil sludge buildup or tips on how to prevent it, give us a call at (603) 332-6822.