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System and method for evaluating automotive vehicle oil deterioration

  • US 6,580,366 B1
  • Filed: 10/13/2000
  • Issued: 06/17/2003
  • Est. Priority Date: 10/13/2000
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. In an automotive vehicle, a method for evaluating automotive oil deterioration, comprising the steps:

  • determining an oil quantity in the vehicle;

    comparing said oil quantity to an oil quantity reference value;

    calculating a low oil detection interval comprising an elapsed time or elapsed distance since a previous detection of a low oil condition; and

    determining that the oil has deteriorated to a significant level when (i) said oil quantity is less than said oil quantity reference value, and (ii) a current low oil detection interval is less than a previous low oil detection interval.

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