Do you know that burning oil is a clear indication that your engine is not in an excellent working state? It is a sign that oil is entering your engine’s combustion chamber; hence, burning to give a fuel-air mixture.
Do not make the mistake of thinking this problem is only particular with an old engine. It can also be a problem in new ones, especially when there is no proper maintenance.
But the good news is that you can fix this problem without any costly repair. This guide will walk through the easy process.
Table of Contents
5 Steps to Stop Engine from Burning Oil:
Many people believe it is normal for a car engine to burn oil. Well, it depends on the translation of normal in this case.
If “normal” means “common,” then you might be right. But there is absolutely nothing usual about engine-burning oil.
Once you discover this problem, the following line of action is to figure out how is it possible to stop my engine from burning oil.
Step 1: Find Out the Cause of The Oil Burn
The solution to engine oil burn might be specific to the problem. So, the first step to finding a solution to a problem is finding out the root cause.
Make a thorough evaluation and figure out where and what is wrong with your engine. You have to find out for any of the symptoms.
Step 2: Fix the PCV Valve
If the problem with your engine is the PCV valve, consider changing and replacing it.
Fixing this is fast and easy. All you need is to get a new valve and get skilled personnel to fix it appropriately.
Step 3: Fix All Leaks
Although it might not be easy to figure out the leaks in a car, it must be figured out and fixed to save engine from burning oil in your car.
You wouldn’t face much hassle in locating large leaks. More minor leaks might require special tools.
Once you find the leak, use a suitable method to fix it, depending on the cause of the leak.
Minor leaks outside the engine might be easy to fix for you. But it is best to seek the service of a professional for internal and complicated leaks.
Step 4: Replace Any Failed Piston Rings
Failed piston rings are one of the leading causes of oil burning in oil. Sadly, it is not possible to fix or repair piston rings.
Here, you have to get new piston rings installed in your engine. Also, you might not be able to do this independently because it requires a significant engine dismantling.
So, you might have no choice but to seek the service of professionals.
Final Step: Use Quality Engine Oil
Now its time to check the use of engine oil. Whenever, you need to change your car oil, you should ensure the use of right oil or recommended oil by manufacturer.
So, it is mandatory to use quality oil as well as recommended right oil. Because, using bad oil will not only cause oil burn and leakage, but it will also damage your engine.
What Causes an Engine to Burn Oil?
Several reasons can cause your engine to burn oil. Most of these specific reasons stem from poor maintenance.
Others can be due to the general dysfunction of the engine’s setup. Below are some of the primary causes of motor burning oil.
The State of Your PCV Valve
One of the significant causes of engine burn is a bad PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve.
The crankcase is vital to an engine’s functionality because it holds most of its moving parts. So, the oil of the engine can help to protect it from friction and heat.
Any malfunction in your crankcase can cause pressure to build up in the system.
Hence, it can force the oil past the seal and gaskets, causing oil burn. Consequently, it can cause your engine to stall, backfire, and run roughly.
Engine Oil Leakage
Testing oil level with a dipstick can tell the rate your engine consumes oil.
A high consumption rate can be a clear indicator of oil leakage. Note that it is easier to notice significant leaks compared to smaller ones.
Slow oil leaks might not be noticeable until it starts to cause oil burn. Large leaks will cause your engine oil to finish on time, which will reflect on your dashboard puddle.
Blown or Malfunctioning Head Gasket
The car gasket is the seal between the cylinder head and engine block. If the gasket starts to malfunction, it can cause the oil to leak, leading to oil burn.
Other effects of malfunctioning gaskets include poor fuel economy, engine overheating, and rough idle.
Failed Ring Pistons
The design of the piston causes it to move against the wall of the cylinder. The engine consumes oil by keeping it in the cylinder to ensure proper lubrication.
But once the piston goes bad, the oil can travel the other way round to the combustion chamber.
The oil in the combustion chamber will burn up; hence, causing damage to the engine.
How Can I Figure Out That My Car Is Burning Oil?
Knowing when your car starts to burn oil is the first step in clamping down on this problem. Below is a step wise guide on how to tell if your vehicle is burning oil.
Step 1: Check Your Oil Level
Start by checking the oil level of your engine. Add oil until it becomes full and recheck after about 500 miles.
Repeat the check on two or more occasions. If a full oil reads a quart low or less in 500 miles, you might be having an oil burn.
Step 2: Check Your Engine’s Exhaust
If you have a blue flame from the exhaust pipe, that is another indication of oil burning.
It will also fail the emission test because of its high hydrocarbon emission.
Step 3: Check Plug Sparks
Pay attention to the way your engine is running. Consider inspecting the spark plug.
A rough-running or misfiring plug engine can be a strong indication that the engine is burning oil.
Remove your spark plugs with a spark plug wrench. Inspect the spark plugs one after the next. A wet, sooty, or oily spark plug is an indication of burning oil.
Engine Burning Oil Symptoms
It would be best if you didn’t go about looking for leakage or droppings when you notice your car starts burning oil.
An engine can burn oil without leakage, except for significant leakages. Below are some of the most significant engines burning oil symptoms.
Step 1: Quick Oil Consumption
The fast oil consumption rate is usually one of the first symptoms of burning oil. It is usual for the engine to consume oil, but an average higher than a quart per 2,000 miles is not normal.
This high rate should point your attention to possible burning engine oil.
Step 2: Check Out for Smokes
One of the most common symptoms of burning oil is a puff of bluish smoke from the tailpipe. It will give a blue tinge characteristic of burning oil, which will lead to high hydrocarbon emissions.
In some cars, particularly those that use synthetic engine oils, the blue smoke is not usually evident.
Here, you have to pay more attention to the smell. Burning oil will give a heavy and choke smell that can upset your stomach.
Engine Oil Additives That Stop Burning Oil
Whenever you notice a higher rate oil consumption from regular time or notice white smoke, its time to add an oil additive to prevent the oil leak from engine or leaks through gaskets.
These oil additive not only reduce oil consumption of engine but also increase engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Some top rated engine oil additive are listed below:
1. Archoil AR9100 Oil Additive (16oz)
2. Liqui Moly 2037 Pro-Line Engine Flush
3. Lucas Oil 10001 Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer
4. Sea Foam SF-16 Motor Treatment - 16 oz
5. Bar's Leaks Concentrated Seal Repair - 16.9 oz
Note: Some of these additives are universal, but it is best to figure out and use one most compatible with your engine oil.
FAQs
1. Is Burning Oil a Problem?
Burning oil in an engine is a problem in any mechanical system, new or old.
The design of all engines is to prevent them from burning. Or at least burn so unnoticeable that it won’t catch any attention.
2. Why is my engine burning so much oil?
There are several reasons your engine might burn so much oil, regardless if it is new or old.
One of the primary reasons is worn-out parts of vital parts like valve seals, pistons, and oil pan gasket head. Using bad oil and poor general maintenance can also cause the engine to burn so much oil.
3. Is it bad to drive a car that burns oil?
Driving a car that burns oil is not a good idea. Besides the fact that it can cause further damage to your engine, it will also emit toxic smoke.
Besides, you would have to spend more on oil and general repair if the entire engine eventually breaks down.
4. Why is my car losing oil but no leak?
A car will lose oil without leaks if there is internal leaking, which causes oil burn.
Conclusion
Remember to identify and fix oil burn before it becomes a bigger problem. Also, don’t hesitate to seek professional service when there is a need for it.
Engine burning oil is a common problem with car owners, regardless if it is new or old. Once you discover this problem, it is best to fix it immediately to avert further damage.