1-800-748-5781
TSB: MO-2005-08-29
AMSOIL Technical Service Bulletin
Date: Rev. 3: 8/17/2010
Product Description: All AMSOIL Synthetic Engine Oils
Subject: Using AMSOIL in engines with possible sludge
issues
OBJECTIVE:
To inform AMSOIL customers that operating conditions of certain engine designs are reported to be “abnormal.” According to Consumer Reports, the engines identified in this bulletin appear to be prone to sludge. The use of AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oils at regular drain intervals established by the vehicle manufacturer will reduce the likelihood of sludge formation, provide the best protection and insure the vehicle manufacturer honours owners’ extended warranties.
ISSUES:
According to the July 2009 issue of Consumer Reports, engines from four different automobile manufacturers are candidates for possible sludge problems. To satisfy customers, Audi/Volkswagen, Lexus/Toyota and Saab have all extended their warranties to eight-years/unlimited mileage. Chrysler/Dodge is the only manufacturer without an extended warranty program and handles claims on a case-by-case basis. Provisions of the extended engine warranty coverage include changing the oil within the OEM recommended interval and maintaining documentation for proof.
TECHNICAL DISCUSSION:
Sludge formation is caused by oil being subjected to abnormal operating conditions such as high heat, excessive blow-by gasses, glycol contamination or poor crankcase ventilation. Sludge formation, if severe enough, can block the oil passages and oil pump pick up screen, resulting in oil starvation. AMSOIL Synthetic Oils have better oxidation resistance, detergency and dispersancy than conventional petroleum oils, and they do a better job of resisting sludge. However, they will not stop sludge formation under abnormal engine operating conditions. The use of synthetic oil for the best possible engine protection is endorsed by many of the engine manufacturers listed.
RECOMMENDATION:
Purchasers of used vehicles listed in Table A should take extra precautions to protect their purchases by reviewing maintenance records or requesting an internal engine inspection prior to purchase. Follow regular OEM-recommended drain intervals with the appropriate AMSOIL Synthetic Motor Oil for cars prone to sludge. The AMSOIL XL and AMSOIL OE Synthetic Oils may be a more cost effective option depending on personal preference. Keep accurate records of all maintenance, engine inspections and oil/filter changes, such as receipts from quick lubes or proof of product purchase and documentation of installation for those who install their own oil.
AFFECTED ENGINES/APPLICATIONS: (1)
Make: Audi/Volkswagen
Engine: 1.8L 4cyl Turbo
Models: 1998-2004 Audi A4, 1998-2005 Volkswagen Passat
New Warranty Coverage: 8 years/unlimited mileage
US Engine Population: 447,000
Make: Chrysler/Dodge
Engine: 2.7L V-6
Models: 1998-2004 Chrysler Concorde, 1998-2004 Chrysler Sebring, 1998-2004 Dodge Intrepid, 1998-2005 Dodge Stratus
New Warranty Coverage: None, Handled on a cases by case basis
US Engine Population: 797,000
Make: Lexus/Toyota
Engine: 3.0L V-6
Models: 1997-2001 Lexus ES300s, 1999-2001 Lexus RX300, 1997-2005 Toyota Camry, 1997-2003 Toyota Avalon
1997-2003 Toyota Sienna, 1999-2003 Toyota Solara, 2001-2003 Toyota Highlander
New Warranty Coverage: 8 years/unlimited mileage
US Engine Population: 1,577,000
Make: Toyota
Engine: 2.2L 4cyl
Models: 1997-2001 Toyota Camry, 1996-1999 Toyota Celica, 1997-2001 Toyota Solara
New Warranty Coverage: 8 years/unlimited mileage
US Engine Population: 1,757,000
Make: Saab
Engine: 2.0L 4cyl Turbo
Model: 2000-2004 9-3 Hatchback, 2000-2004 9-3 Convertible
US Engine Population: 82,000
Engine: 2.3L 4cyl Turbo
Models: 2000-2004 9-5, 1999-2002 9-3 Viggen
US Engine Population: 68,000
New Warranty Coverage: 8 years/unlimited mileage
(1) Source: ConsumerReports.org
Recommended Drain Intervals (2)
Make: Audi/Volkswagen
Engine: 1.8L 4cyl Turbo
Models: 1997-2004 Audi A4, 1997-2004 Volkswagen Passat
Oil Drain Intervals for Extended Warranty Coverage: 5,000 miles, or six months (normal/severe)
Make: Chrysler/Dodge
Engine: 2.7L V-6
Models: 1998-2002 Chrysler Concorde, 1998-2002 Chrysler Sebring, 1998-2002 Dodge Intrepid, 1998-2002 Dodge Stratus
Oil Drain Intervals for Extended Warranty Coverage: 3,000 miles, or three months (severe), 5,000 miles, or six months (normal)
Make: Lexus/Toyota
Engine: 3.0L V-6
Models: 1997-2001 Lexus ES300s, 1999-2001 Lexus RX300, 1997-2001 Toyota Camry, 1997-2001 Toyota Avalon
1997-2001Toyota Sienna, 1999-2001 Toyota Camry Solara, 2001 Toyota Highlander
Oil Drain Intervals for Extended Warranty Coverage: 5,000 miles, or four months (severe), 7,500 miles (normal)
Make: Toyota
Engine: 2.2L 4cyl
Models: 1997-2001 Toyota Camry, 1996-1999 Toyota Celica
Oil Drain Intervals for Extended Warranty Coverage: 5,000 miles, or four months (severe), 7,500 miles (normal)
Make: Saab
Engine: 2.0L 4cyl Turbo
Model: 2000-2002 9-3 Hatchback, 2000-2003 9-3 Convertible
US Engine Population: 82,000
Engine: 2.3L 4cyl Turbo
Models: 2000-2003 9-5, 1999 9-3 Viggen
Oil Drain Intervals for Extended Warranty Coverage: 5,000 miles, or six months (severe), 10,000 miles (normal)
(2) 2005 Car Care Guide, Motor Systems
