I Got My Engine Oil Analyzed, Heres Why You Should Too!

Summary

In this video, the host compares engine oil to blood, explaining how analyzing oil can reveal vital information about a vehicle's health. He demonstrates sending a sample to Blackstone Labs for analysis and walks through the steps involved, from ordering a free test kit to collecting the sample during an oil change. After receiving the results, he breaks down the report, which shows his engine is in good condition with only slightly elevated iron levels. The video emphasizes the value of regular oil analysis in maintaining engine health.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ Blackstone Labs provides engine oil analysis services, similar to blood tests for human health, to assess vehicle health.
• 🚗 The engine oil is compared to the blood of a motor, offering insights into engine performance and wear.
• 📦 You can order a free test kit from Blackstone Labs' website, which includes everything needed to collect an oil sample.
• 🌡️ To collect an oil sample, the engine should be warm, and the oil should be taken mid-drain during an oil change or by using a pump.
• 📑 Once the sample is collected, you fill out a form, create a unique identifier (unit ID) for your vehicle, and mail the sample back for analysis.
• 📧 Blackstone Labs provides analysis results via email or mail, detailing the condition of the engine based on the oil sample.
• 📊 The report contains sections on additives, elements, viscosity, and whether there are any contaminants like fuel or coolant.
• ⚙️ In this case, the only elevated element was iron, but this could be normal for the engine in question. Other metals and parameters were in good condition.
• 🔍 Oil analysis can help diagnose engine problems, like coolant leaks, and can be done regularly to monitor engine health.
• 👍 This analysis is particularly useful for high-mileage vehicles and can be repeated during future oil changes to track changes over time.

Q & A

What is the purpose of getting engine oil analyzed?

The purpose of getting engine oil analyzed is to understand the health of your vehicle's engine. The oil can reveal important details about the engine's condition, such as the presence of metals, fuel, or coolant, as well as the oil's viscosity and other properties.

Which company does the presenter recommend for oil analysis?

The presenter recommends Blackstone Labs for oil analysis, although they clarify that the company is not a sponsor and they are not being paid for the recommendation.

How do you obtain an oil analysis kit from Blackstone Labs?

You can order a free test kit from Blackstone Labs by visiting their website. The kit will be shipped to your house and contains everything you need to collect and send a sample.

What are the two ways to collect an oil sample?

You can collect an oil sample either during an oil change, which is the easiest method, or by using a pump to extract the oil through the oil filler neck without performing a full oil change.

What precautions should be taken when collecting the oil sample?

The oil sample should be taken when the engine is warm, meaning the vehicle needs to be driven first to reach operating temperature. When draining the oil, avoid collecting the sample from the very beginning or end of the drain process.

What details need to be provided on the form included in the oil analysis kit?

You need to fill out a form that includes a unique identifier for your car (referred to as a 'unit ID'), as well as details about the oil, the vehicle, and your personal information.

How long does it typically take to receive the results of the oil analysis?

The results typically take around 12 days. If you provide an email address, Blackstone Labs will send the results via email. Otherwise, they will mail the results to you.

What information is included in the oil analysis report?

The report includes information about the oil sample, a summary of the findings (such as the presence of metals, fuel, or coolant), and detailed statistics about the oil's chemical properties compared to universal averages. There is also information on viscosity and other important engine health indicators.

What specific issue was identified in the presenter's oil analysis report?

The oil analysis report indicated that the iron levels were higher than usual, but this might be normal for the specific motor. Otherwise, the other metrics, such as the presence of metals, fuel, or coolant, were within acceptable ranges.

Why is oil analysis especially useful for monitoring engine health?

Oil analysis is especially useful for detecting major engine issues, such as leaks or worn components, before they cause severe damage. It can provide insight into the condition of the engine's internal components, making it a valuable tool for preventive maintenance.