How To Prevent LSPI

What is LSPI? Defined by motor.com, “LSPI is an unexpected consequence of downsizing and boosting engines. Also known as stochastic pre-ignition (SPI), megaknock, superknock or deto-knock. LSPI most commonly occurs at low speeds during a period of rapid acceleration. LSPI is believed to be caused by droplets or particles in the combustion chamber—combinations of fuel and oil—that ignite prior to spark, resulting in uncontrolled, abnormal combustion. This creates spikes in engine pressure, ultimately causing internal engine damage. In some cases, researchers reported that just a single LSPI event was sufficient to cause severe engine damage”. LSPI is ultimately caused by installing engine oil that is not high quality nor treated to prevent LSPI from occurring.
LSPI is common in modern engines, and those that are turbocharged, or are equipped with gasoline direct injection engines. There are multiple steps you can take to prevent LSPI from occurring in your vehicle. The first is choosing a high-quality motor oil that combats abnormal combustion. At EuroCar Service we only use high-quality oil with all of our oil change & filter services. Another way to prevent LSPI is to ensure you’re using the proper fuel for your vehicle. If you’re driving a European vehicle, it is likely your manufacturer calls for premium gasoline. This is one of the reasons you would want to opt for the recommended premium instead of regular gas.
Following your routine maintenance is the most important component of all. At most ASE certified automotive repair shops in the U.S. you can bring your vehicle in for an oil change, and they’ll perform a complimentary safety inspection. Though the range of what this inspection includes varies between shops, what stays consistent is your service advisor informing you of any services due by time or mileage. They’ll also recommend repairs that need to happen, and if they’re a good shop, they’ll help you work within your budget by informing you of what needs to be repaired or serviced now and what can wait.
At EuroCar Service, we take all these actions and then some. It is always important to us for our customers to avoid any possible repairs and to be safe on the road. We never want you to have to deal with sudden major engine damage repair, so make sure you make it in for your oil changes to help prevent the issue from occurring. As always give us a call with any questions or to schedule an appointment.