At KrizTek, our commitment to data-driven knowledge extends beyond the office walls. While much of our clients' information is confidential, we wanted to showcase our expertise in a more personal way. So, we launched “Operation Oil Life”—a project to explore the wear and performance of engine oil over time. This endeavor brings KrizTek’s approach to condition monitoring into a real-world scenario with a Chevy truck’s 3.0L Duramax diesel engine. Through a series of carefully timed samples, we’ll track the evolution of oil condition and evaluate the accuracy of the truck's onboard Oil Life meter.
Sample Data: Tracking Changes Over Time
The project began with a baseline sample of fresh Mobil 1 synthetic 0-W20 Dexos D oil, creating a foundation to monitor wear and contaminant buildup. Our first sample from the truck showed an oil life of 31% remaining according to the onboard indicator, which serves as our initial reference point. With this baseline, we’re ready to see what our data reveals as the oil ages.
GM recommends changing the engine oil every 7,500 miles, but their Oil Life algorithm considers more than just mileage. It combines factors like driving conditions, engine temperature, trip duration, engine load, engine speed, ambient temperature, and idling time. This test will offer a closer look at the science behind the simple "oil life remaining" indicator.
In a few days, the truck will undergo a fresh oil change and embark on a long road trip, allowing us to gather additional data points under various conditions. With skilled oil test technicians and advanced analysis, we’ll let the data do the talking to uncover insights into oil performance over time.
The Road Ahead: Ongoing Analysis
This initial comparison, shown below, provides a snapshot of oil performance and how wear metals, viscosity, and additives evolve with use (note that we didn’t say "mileage"). Future samples will build on these insights with real-world data.
Why This Matters to KrizTek
While “Operation Oil Life” is a small side project, it exemplifies KrizTek’s commitment to precision and discovery. It highlights a deep-rooted curiosity and a desire to understand the science behind everyday operations—from project sites to the open road. Follow along as we continue exploring the data and refining our approach to understanding oil life.
