Oil is the lifeblood of any vehicle’s engine. It lessens wear and friction on the moving components and aids in heat dissipation. However, when your car starts to burn through oil more quickly than normal, it can be a cause for concern. Not only does it mean that your engine is not running efficiently, but it can also lead to more severe problems if left unaddressed. In this blog, we will discuss the 5 causes of excessive oil consumption and how to fix them.
1: Worn Piston Rings
The piston rings are responsible for sealing the combustion chamber and preventing oil from leaking into the cylinder. If the rings are worn or damaged, oil can seep past them and burn in the combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption. To fix this issue, you will need to replace the piston rings. This is a complicated repair that is best left to a professional mechanic who has experience in engine rebuilding.
It’s important to note that while worn piston rings can be a common cause of excessive oil consumption, there are other potential causes as well, such as worn valve guides or damaged cylinder walls. That’s why it’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to accurately diagnose the issue and ensure that it is properly fixed.
2: Faulty Valve Seals
The valve seals are responsible for preventing oil from entering the combustion chamber through the intake and exhaust valves. If these seals are worn or damaged, oil can seep past them and into the combustion chamber, causing excessive oil consumption. To fix this issue, you will need to replace the valve seals. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done by a mechanic during an oil change service.
3: Leaking Oil Pan Gasket
BThe oil pan gasket keeps the oil pan from leaking into the engine. If this gasket is damaged or worn, it can allow oil to leak out of the pan and onto the ground. This can lead to low oil levels and, ultimately, excessive oil consumption. To fix this issue, you will need to replace the oil pan gasket. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done by a mechanic during an oil change service.
4: Clogged PCV Valve
The positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve controls the exchange of exhaust and intake air in an internal combustion engine. If this valve becomes clogged, it can cause a buildup of pressure in the crankcase, which can lead to oil consumption. To fix this issue, you will need to replace the PCV valve. This is a relatively simple repair that can be done by a mechanic during an oil change service.
Regular maintenance and inspection of the PCV valve can prevent excessive oil consumption and prolong the life of the engine. It is recommended to have the PCV valve checked during routine oil changes and replaced if necessary. It’s also important to use the manufacturer-recommended type and viscosity of oil to prevent clogging of the PCV valve and other engine components.
5:Incorrect Oil Viscosity
Using the wrong oil viscosity can also cause excessive oil consumption. If the oil is too thin, it will not provide adequate lubrication and will burn off quickly. If the oil is too thick, it will not flow properly and can cause oil starvation in the engine. To fix this issue, you will need to use the oil viscosity recommended by the manufacturer. Consult your owner’s manual or speak to a professional mechanic to determine the correct oil viscosity for your vehicle.
In conclusion, excessive oil consumption can be a cause for concern and can lead to more severe problems if left unaddressed. If you notice that your car is burning through oil more quickly than normal, it is essential to have it inspected by a professional mechanic. By identifying the underlying cause of the excessive oil consumption and addressing it promptly, you can keep your engine running smoothly and avoid more costly repairs down the line.
If you are in Dubai and looking for car oil change or oil change service, you can easily find a car oil change near me service provider. They can help you identify any issues with your engine and fix them promptly to prevent further damage. Regular engine oil change and transmission oil change can also help prevent excessive oil consumption by ensuring that the engine is properly lubricated and running efficiently. Don’t ignore any signs of excessive oil consumption and have your car inspected by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
