So I had this question in the back of my head and I was wondering what can I do more to prevent oil sludge. I already am using quality oil and a filter but I’m doing short trips usually a mile or so each time I drive which is what I think is the problem there. But is driving at least five miles really going to make a difference with this issue in the future
cars were engineered to move.
Electric bikes are all the rage.
Sludge is caused by several factors, but the ones you can control (without buying a different car) are the frequency of oil changes, the health of your positive crankcase ventilation system and getting your car up to operating temperature often enough to drive the moisture out of your oil. How far/fast that happens depends on the engine and how you drive it - a small 4 cylinder car driven at 40+ mph for 5 miles in summer - no problem, a diesel HD truck in winter driven in city traffic, probably not. Your temp gauge will tell you if you're up to temp.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_sludge
I suggest high mileage synthetic oil, due to having more detergents. That and take some scenic drives on the weekend or something and get the car moving at a good speed for a bit.
Change your oil, filter and PCV valve at no more than 5000 miles and give it the Italian tune up at least once a week.
