How to Handle Black Death and Your Vauxhall Engine

How much do you value your Vauxhall? Most car owners show their love by ensuring preventative maintenance is done, cleaning and washing their car, and scheduling regular checkups with their local mechanic. They want to make sure that certain Vauxhall parts are maintained, like the transmission, so that their car runs for years to come.

But what about the engine? We all know that in order for the engine to survive it needs oil. Oil is the lifeblood of the engine; without it, it can’t survive. The problem is, most car owners tend to look at engine oil as a one-size-fits-all. That can be a problem that can lead to issues like black death.

What is Black Death?

Black death was a problem that first came about in the 1980’s, when engine seizures ran rampant throughout Europe, leaving behind only a sticky black substance. At this time, the black substance was a frustrating mystery to car owners- especially those who owned Ford and Vauxhall cars. The problem turned out to be caused by a number of things:

• Higher speed limits

• Rising temperatures under the bonnet

• Tighter engineering tolerances

• Engine oils that were overworked

These issues caused a change in the chemical makeup of the engine oil, causing it to become thick, sticky, and black like tar. It was then unable to move through the oil filter and find its way to the engine, resulting in a lack of lubrication that can cause engines to seize.

Today, Black Death still exists, but we often refer to it as sludge. Over time, engine oils break down due to exposure and temperatures. Unfortunately, the problem is often accelerated these days due to the lower amount of engine that engines can hold in newer cars.

What to do About Black Death and Vauxhall Parts

• Preventative Maintenance- Keep a close eye on the condition of your oil throughout the year. If you know your Vauxhall is prone to Black Death, change the oil before it changes into sludge.

• Storage- Has your Vauxhall been in storage for a little while? If so, you’re probably already taking steps to check car parts and ensure they are all in working condition. While you’re in the process of doing this, go ahead and change the oil.

• Cold Starts- While newer Vauxhalls may be ready to go as soon as you turn on the engine, older models may still need to warm up on cooler days. Give the engine oil a few minutes to become warm before you drive off to work in the morning.

• Quality Oil- Always make sure you’re using a quality oil that is appropriate for the type of car you’re putting it into. Lower quality oil will turn into sludge much faster.

Curing Sludge to Prevent Damage to Car Parts

If Black Death has already become a problem, you need to take care of it before it affects your engine and other car parts. However, this generally requires flushing of the engine, which can be dangerous to the engine as well. Don’t attempt to do this at home; consult a professional for the best results if you really want to keep your Vauxhall intact and rid yourself of a black, sticky problem.