Excessive oil consumption isn’t normal. If your car is burning through oil, it’s a sign of a problem. What’s causing the oil consumption and what can you do to fix it?
Signs your engine is using too much oil
- You have to add oil between scheduled oil changes.
- The oil pressure or low oil light comes on.
- Blue-gray smoke comes from the exhaust, especially at startup or when accelerating.
- You see oil spots under the car or smell burning oil after a drive.
Common causes
Oil leaves an engine in two ways: it leaks out, or it gets burned inside the engine.
- Leaks. Worn gaskets and seals, such as the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or crankshaft seals, let oil drip out.
- Worn piston rings. Oil slips past the rings into the combustion chamber and burns. Some engines have known ring problems; see our post on the Honda warranty extension for Accord piston rings.
- Worn valve stem seals. Oil runs down the valve stems into the cylinders, often showing as smoke at startup.
- PCV system problems. A clogged positive crankcase ventilation valve can push oil into the intake to be burned.
- Turbocharger seals. On turbocharged engines, worn turbo seals can let oil into the intake or exhaust.
What to do
Check the dipstick every few fill-ups and keep track of how much oil you add. Running an engine low on oil causes wear quickly, so don't wait for the next oil change if the level keeps dropping.
At Murphy's Autocare, technicians start with a digital vehicle inspection, with photos and video sent to your phone, to look for leaks and other causes. You approve any repair before work begins. Fleet and diesel customers can also ask about on-site oil analysis.
Schedule an inspection at our Beavercreek shop (937-426-2886) or Centerville shop (937-433-0140).
Stay connected with us!
