I've a 2002 MINI S, with 75K miles, and wanting a means to check condition of the engine oil, without sending oil off to be tested.

Looking on the Internet I found a one drop engine oil test pad from a company in England. Their web site is: www.oil-spy.com. Using pay-pal I purchased a kit that contains 24 test pads. Cost $28. This is to test for grime, oil condition, water and fuel in the oil, based on a series of rings. Also works with diesels.

So, took 15 minutes, and everything tested ok.

I also took an engine oil sample and sent to a lab to double check. Results showed no problems with the oil. I will now test every 1000 miles to monitor engine oil condition.

My point: here is a quick and very easy means to check the condition of your engine oil.

Two uses: 1) monitor your engine oil condition to get best service life; 2) check a used car's engine condition before buying.

Take a look, might help.
John

 

When it comes to oil tests...it just about impossible to tell the condition of your motor based off of a one time oil test. You need to monitor the oil several over a decent amount of time. The first test is just a "Baseline"....then ever test after that the testing company will be able to look for INCREASES of contaminants in the oil.

A one time test really can't tell you much........well not any more than you can tell by looking at your own oil after you drain it (metal grit, metal flakes, copper dust).

 

I very much agree. I've taken samples at 1,000 and 2,000 miles, with no change in appearance.


I will continue at 1,000 intervals.
John

 

Hey JuanPablo,

Thanks for the info and link! This is what the forum's about - adding interesting little finds that enhance our relationships with our Minis. Cheers mate.

 

www.blackstone-labs.com

 

Nice. Not sure where you're going with it, but don't stop there.

 

I also found this: http://www.lubricheck.com/

Have not purchased.

Really informative forum with tons of information. I wanted to give something back to show my thanks.

John

PS: I have a MINI S, purchased April, 2002. Always garage kept, seldom seen rain, and never seen snow. Looks like brand new. Really fun to drive..........