Sludge is a car engine’s worst nightmare. The accumulation of heat and moisture causes the oil to gel, leading to Trouble—with a capital “T”. Oil sludge in turbocharged engines is especially common. If you’re a VW or Audi owner, you may want to take notice.
What’s Going On?
Volkswagen manufactured a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine for the VW Passat from 1997 to 2005. While such engines are renowned for their exceptional performance, they also became hot really fast. Due to the relatively low 3.7-quart oil capacity, the engine bay can quickly overheat. This is especially the case if you frequently commute for short distances or are late on an oil change. Along with VWs from the above years, the Audi A4 from years 1998-2004 have the same turbocharged engine as well.
The repair bill for a damaged 1.8-liter turbocharged engine can run from $4,000 to $8,000.
VW’s response? It extended the warranty of select models to eight years. Customers, though, still had to be able to submit proof of repairs. Miss an oil change or change your own oil and the warranty is void.
Needless to say, VW faced a massive lawsuit. As part of an agreement, the automaker eventually agreed to the following:
- VW will compensate owners 100% of costs on engine repairs if they can provide proof of their last two oil changes.
- VW will reimburse 50% of engine repair costs to owners unable to show proof.
We Remove Oil Sludge in Turbocharged Engines
Do you drive one of the aforementioned Audi or VW models? The engines for these models require timely oil changes or else sludge develops quickly. Bring your car to Buttera Motors for interval oil changes. Our story reveals why we’re the crew for such tasks. Untreated Oil sludge in a turbocharged engine will cost you an arm and a leg down the road.
Engine Sludge Removal in Kirkland
VW and Audi service in Bothell, Bellevue, Kirkland, Kenmore, Redmond & Woodinville