Why Does Diesel Motor Oil Turn Black?

It 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

• Noria Corporation: Four Lethal Diesel Engine Oil Contaminants
• Quaker State Information Program for Professionals: Myth: Oil Color