Oil Sludge: The Silent Killer

[MeraBoy]

Sludge occurs when engine passages become clogged with oil resulting in a catastrophic engine failure. At that point, engine replacement is the only option.

Since 2004, the Center for Auto Safety, a consumer advocacy group, logged more than 1000 oil sludge complaints from consumers.
In the last few years, Volkswagen, which owns Audi, extended its engine warranty to eight years on certain model year Audi A4 and VW Passats. Toyota, Lexus (owned by Toyota), and Saab also extended their engine warranties to eight years on some of their vehicles. Daimler-Chrysler is treating problems on a case by case basis.

There are no absolute indicators of oil sludge. You have to open up the engine to see it. Here’s how to prevent it:
* Change oil at regular intervals [follow car owners manual]
* Take serious any Engine stall or oil lamp indicator-have car inspected
* Keep all receipts for oil changes

Engines experienced oil sludge problems
Toyota/Lexus --> Toyota/Lexus Class Action Settlement-Official Court Website

* Toyota Camry 4 cyl. 1997-2001
* Toyota Camry 6 cyl. 1997-2002
* Toyota Solara 4 cyl. 1999-2001
* Toyota Solara 6 cyl. 1999-2002
* Toyota Sienna 6 cyl. 1998-2002
* Toyota Avalon 6 cyl. 1997-2002
* Toyota Celica 4 cyl. 1997-1999
* Toyota Highlander 6 cyl. 2001-2002
* Lexus ES300 1997-2002
* Lexus RX300 1999-2002

Saab
* Saab 9-3 2000-2003
* Saab 9-5 1998-2003

Chrysler
* Chrysler Concorde 1998-2002
* Chrysler Sebring 1998-2002
* Dodge Stratus 1998-2002
* Dodge Intrepid 1998-2002

Volkswagen
* Passat 1.8L Turbo 1998-2004
* Passat 1.8L Turbo/Wagon 1998-2004

Audi
* Audi A4 1.8L Turbo 1998-2004

Source:
http://cbs11tv.com/seenon/local_story_325105442.html

p/s: Believe it or not is solely based on your own discretion. Don't bark on me!