Why we Pump Old Engine Oil Out Instead of Draining It

As German auto mechanics, we often get asked why we pump out old engine oil instead of simply draining it. Many people don’t understand the difference between the two methods and the impact it can have on their vehicle. As experts in the field, we are here to educate you on why we choose to pump, not drain, engine oil.

Firstly, let’s discuss what draining engine oil actually means. Draining engine oil is the process of removing the oil from your vehicle using gravity. The oil is emptied out of a valve placed at the bottom of the oil pan, and once it’s all drained, a new drain plug is put back in place. The issue with this method is that draining oil only empties about 60-75% of the oil from your vehicle. The rest of the oil remains stuck in the engine, which isn’t effectively changed during a drain.

This is where pumping comes in. Pumping out engine oil is a much more thorough method that ensures all the old oil is removed from your vehicle. Instead of relying on gravity to remove the oil, a pump is used to suck out all the oil from your engine through the oil cap or the dipstick hole. This technique results in a more thorough and complete oil change in your vehicle.

Furthermore, pumping engine oil is the preferred method among car manufacturers. They recommend it because it’s more effective, and because it reduces the chances of contamination from old, used oil that may be left in the engine. Pumping also eliminates the need to remove or damage the oil drain plug, which makes it a safer and more efficient method overall.

Another advantage of pumping over draining is that pumping is less messy and less damaging than traditional draining. When draining, oil can spill all over the engine, making it hard to clean up and sometimes damaging wires and other engine parts. Pumping, on the other hand, is a clean and controlled process; there are fewer chances for spillage, and it doesn’t risk damage to any engine parts.

In conclusion, choosing between pumping or draining your engine oil is a simple choice. While draining has been the norm for decades, pumping is now the preferred method among car manufacturers. It’s safer, more thorough, and more efficient, ensuring your engine undergoes a complete oil change. As an Audi, BMW or Mercedes owner in Colorado, pumping your engine oil is an excellent choice to maintain and extend the health of your vehicle’s engine. By selecting a well-rounded maintenance program, you are making a wise investment in your vehicle’s longevity and overall health.