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What is an engine oil flush?

I recently bought an old car that hasn’t been driven in years. The previous owner told me that the car's engine oil fluid levels are fine, but my mechanic is recommending doing an engine oil flush to make sure the car runs smoothly. I don’t understand why I’d do this though. Can you tell me what an engine oil flush is?

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Katherine Duffy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
I understand—it can be tough to figure out what an engine oil flush is exactly and why you’d do it. An engine oil flush involves a chemical additive you pour into your engine to clean out accumulated oil sludge from your engine.
With an engine oil flush, the chemical additive is poured directly into your engine’s oil-filler port. Then, the engine idles for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the additive to circulate through your engine and clean out built-up gunk, sludge, and other oil deposits that might be clinging to your engine components.
Then, your engine oil is drained along with the additive to get rid of the old oil, sludge, and other deposits. After the oil is drained, your oil filter is changed, your car receives brand new oil, and you’re able to drive again until your car needs another oil change.
Engine oil flushes are great for maintaining engine health on older vehicles and keeping your engine oil working as efficiently as possible.
GIving your older vehicle an engine oil flush before replacing it with new oil is an excellent way to stay safe on the roads, but the best way to make sure you’re covered is by signing up for great
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