Complain to Toyota, they are fixing some of these car for free. Here is the
explanation and the list of problem vehicles.
Oil sludge or
black sludge is a
solid or
gel in
motor oil caused by the oil gelling or solidifying, usually at temperatures lower than 100 degrees
Celsius. Sludge can be a major contributor to
Internal combustion engine problems, and can require the engine to be replaced, if the damage is severe. Sludge is usually caused by the presence of
water in the oil, and can accumulate with use. Ways to minimize sludge production and accumulation includes performing frequent oil changes, using
synthetic oil, and following the manufacturer's engine maintenance routine.
The following engines were reported by the
Center for Auto Safety and/or their manufacturers to have a problem with sludge accumulation:
1996-2001 Toyota 3.0 L 1MZ V6
1996-2001 Toyota 5SFE I4
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