Why Does Diesel Motor Oil Turn Black?
by Lexa W. LeeIt is normal for diesel motor oil to turn black quickly. The dark color is a sign that the oil is performing correctly by keeping byproducts of the combustion process in suspension.
How It Works
The high pressures in the combustion chamber forces soot and other contaminants into the oil, which carry them to the oil filter. The contaminants are what turn the oil black, according to Quaker State.
More Soot
Higher fuel injection pressures in newer diesel engines produce lower exhaust emissions, but produce more soot, according to "Four Lethal Diesel Engine Oil Contaminants" by Jim Fitch of Noria Corporation This quickly turns motor oil black. In fact, it would be abnormal for the oil to stay clear.
Oil Change
Periodically, the oil must be changed along with the filter. Diesel engines need oil filters just as gasoline engines do. At some point, the oil can no longer keep contaminants in suspension and carry them away from engine parts.
References
Writer Bio
Lexa W. Lee is a New Orleans-based writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has contributed to "Central Nervous System News" and the "Journal of Naturopathic Medicine," as well as several online publications. Lee holds a Bachelor of Science in biology from Reed College, a naturopathic medical degree from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine and served as a postdoctoral researcher in immunology.
