Volkswagen is a popular German automotive manufacturer, founded in 1937 and headquartered in Wolfsburg, Lower Saxony, Germany, widely known for its popular Beetle. Volkswagen has gone on to design and manufacture many models from sedans to SUVs designed with the comfort of the occupants in mind.
Over time, Volkswagens may experience a buildup of sludge throughout that can lead to many other problems. Automotive experts have joined together to provide you with tips to avoid sludge buildup in your Volkswagen.
What does engine oil do?
Engine oil, also called motor oil, plays a vital role in maintaining optimal engine performance. It provides lubrication to many moving parts throughout the engine and other various components. Because these parts move to work together to provide mobility, engine oil is responsible for reducing the amount of friction produced between these parts.
Motor oil is also responsible for:
- Maintaining cool engine temperatures
- Keeping the engine clean
- Appropriately sealing off the engine
- Protecting the engine from corrosion
- Decrease fuel consumption
- Decrease harmful CO2 emissions
How does sludge build-up in Volkswagen?
Sludge buildup occurs as a result of oxidation, the process in which oil experiences prolonged contact with oxygen under extremely hot temperatures affecting the reliability and performance of your Volkswagen, regardless of the model.
The most common cause of oxidation is undesirable driving conditions. Driving in areas that are prone to high traffic or frequent intersections that cause a lot of “stop and go” leaves your engine to reach extremely high temperatures by adding undue strain on the engine. When this occurs, sludge is more prone to building up within various parts of the engine and other close areas.
Where does sludge commonly build up?
Sludge buildup in your Volkswagen as a result of oxidation can occur in many different areas, however, there are two areas that sludge buildup commonly originates:
- The valve cover is found on top of the engine and is responsible for protecting the engine itself and preventing oil leaks.
- The oil pan is designed to act as a reservoir to hold engine oil as it circulates throughout the engine.
When sludge buildup occurs outside of these areas, or in an excess amount without being tended to, the buildup may result in large sludge clogs completely blocking the flow of oil. When this occurs, the engine is more susceptible to overheating as the oil is unable to flow freely to maintain cool temperatures and reduce friction between the moving parts.
Tips to Prevent a Buildup of Sludge in a Volkswagen
There are many things that a driver can do to reduce the risk of oxidation resulting in a buildup of sludge throughout various parts of your Volkswagen such as:
- Strictly following manufacturer recommended maintenance schedules.
- Change engine oil regularly.
- Continually monitor your Volkswagen for oil problems such as low oil pressure or an oil leak.
- Conduct frequent inspections of various components of your vehicle.
- Monitor the engine temperature to ensure it is not rising too high.
Call on Our Volkswagen Experts for All Your Automotive Needs!
Heynneman European is San Rafael’s preferred European automotive service and repair facility. Founded 
in 1979 by Paul Heynneman, our facility has been helping drivers of San Rafael, California, and surrounding areas including Larkspur, Kentfield, Corte, Mill Valley, San Anselmo, and Fairfax, CA.
A few of the popular services we provide include:
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We service popular automotive brands including Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Volvo. By limiting the brands we provide service and repairs to, we can ensure we are providing the best work for each model produced by these popular brands.
At Heynneman European, we are more than just a service center. We are a AAA and Bosch Certified service center fully staffed with highly trained mechanics. In addition, we offer:
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We strive to provide customers with the same quality work that you can receive at a dealership with a more personalized feel. Give us a call today to let us earn your business.
* Volkswagen Steering Wheel image credit goes to: Dmitrii Guldin.
