Nice post. I thought you were a software developer?
For the most part I actually agree with you. I've never advocated that a single pass UOA can early detect an imminent engine failure..
Quote:
The remainder of the repairs fell into the following categories (most common items first).
- Timing chain/belt failures or tensioner failures.
- Head gasket failure.
- Dropped valve seat, sticky valve, weak spring or other valvetrain issues.
- Moving cylinder liner.
- Spun bearings.
|
How many of these are related to oil failing? (Except perhaps the last one). I agree that a UOA cannot possibly detect these things. (Neither can visually inspecting the oil). UOA is good for seeing if you have a coolant leak in the system, or if you have insufficient air filtration.
Most UOA companies that I've seen have never promoted the idea that doing a UOA will be able to catch something early. UOA is not X-Ray vision to inspect the components inside the engine. The best way for that is to open up the engines and physically look inside. UOA is good to see if your intervals are sufficient. I don't recommend doing a UOA every single oil change unless you're a serious oil enthusiast. I think it's sufficient every other change.
Why don't you feel the need to change your oil every 3,000km? Because you know that it's completely unnecessary. It's possible to make the same jump of faith from 5,000 to say, 10,000. UOA is a great tool to help you do that.
Most people don't give two shits about their oil changes , but it's RS , where people are willing to wash and wax their cars every other day, so certain members may be interested. You make a good point about the car being up and being able to inspect components, however. But again, most average people simple don't care about that kind of thing.