[2008 Yaris] Engine oil getting dark really quick?

[icqboy51]

hey guys, have a 2008 Yaris.

its oil was changed at the dealership on April 1st. and i was checking the oil level and the oil is already darkish-yellow/ brown...

i also have a Gen5 Camry, but its oil does not get dark until at least 2 months after changing...

does the darkness have to do with how much the car was driven?

cause the Yaris is driven quite a bit (at least 5 days/ week about 30km/ day). the Camry is driven about 4 days/ week within 15km/ day).

please advise. thanx

[jambo101]

Originally Posted by icqboy51

does the darkness have to do with how much the car was driven?

Probably has a lot to do with detergent content in the oil they are using especially if synthetic oil is being used.

[icqboy51]

nah, only paid for conventional oil on the Yaris at the dealership.

and also conventional oil for the Camry.

[Yaris Hilton]

Oil color isn't a reliable indicator of oil condition. Darkening means that the oil is keeping tiny carbonaceous particles well dispersed, that are too small for the filter to catch.

My Yaris' tailpipe tip stays shiny clean, except when I tromp on the gas pedal. I suspect you're doing that more than in your Camry. Near wide open throttle, it goes open loop and enriches the mixture enough to make black soot.

[miamiman1321]

try smelling the condition of the oil. it could be turning that brownish yellow color because its being burnt in the motor. try and smell it see if smells burnt if so take it in quick

[icqboy51]

still seems fine.

its been almost 1 month and the oil is still clear, has not turned brown yet.

so hopefully it is the dealer, who forgot the change the oil and not anything wrong with my Yaris.

[PhatRoyale]

Originally Posted by Yaris Hilton

Oil color isn't a reliable indicator of oil condition. Darkening means that the oil is keeping tiny carbonaceous particles well dispersed, that are too small for the filter to catch.

My Yaris' tailpipe tip stays shiny clean, except when I tromp on the gas pedal. I suspect you're doing that more than in your Camry. Near wide open throttle, it goes open loop and enriches the mixture enough to make black soot.

+1

I cannot stress enough times why so many people don't understand that concept.

I would be really worried if my oil wasn't turning dark at all.