If you’ve noticed your oil level dropping consistently and it’s not time for an oil change, your engine might be burning oil. Engines can burn oil when certain parts are worn out or faulty. Your car’s engine needs oil as a lubricant, and too little oil for too long can cause expensive damage. You don’t want to ignore this problem.
Signs You May be Burning Oil
Some signs to watch out for if you think you’re burning oil include:
- Large drops in your oil level with no visible signs of leaks or drips
- A bluish smoke coming from your exhaust pipe
- A decrease in engine performance
- The smell of burning oil
If you notice any of these signs, bring your car to an experienced mechanic, like the ones at Restored Auto, LLC, as soon as you can. Engine oil is very important for the lubrication and function of your engine, so you don’t want to ignore any problems once you notice them.
What causes engines to burn oil?
Clogged PCV Valves—A PCV valve (Positive Crankshaft Ventilation system) helps to remove gases created during combustion. When this valve is clogged, oil can get sucked or pushed into the engine and burn.
Worn Piston Rings and Cylinders—Similar to the PCV valve, piston rings help to control gases from combustion. If either the ring itself or the cylinder wall has worn down, there may not be a proper seal and oil can get into the combustion chamber.
Faulty Valve Seals—Your car has valve seals that control oil use and lubrication. When one of these valve seals is faulty, it does the opposite and allows oil to leak into the engine. This can result in your engine burning oil.
Overheating Engines—An engine overheating can impact your oil’s effectiveness. Most oils are designed to operate in a certain way at a certain temperature. If the engine’s temperature is too high, the oil can deteriorate and lose its ability to lubricate. This can cause damage to other engine parts and that damage may lead to burning oil.
Incorrect Oil Weight—Oil weight, or oil viscosity, refers to the thickness of an oil. Using an incorrect oil weight can lead to poor circulation and oil burn off. If you’re not sure what type of oil your car needs, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Why can you smell burning oil?
Smelling oil is almost always a bad sign. If your car is burning oil outside of the engine, you may be able to smell it. Some reasons why your car might be burning oil outside of the engine include:
- An oil leak
- An oil filter problem (it’s loose, it’s installed incorrectly, etc.)
- A loose, worn, or missing filler cap
- Problems with the valve cover gasket
- Too much oil
How to Prevent Your Car from Burning Oil
The best way to prevent your vehicle from burning oil is to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs. You can spot valve problems early, detect faulty cylinders before they become a problem, and prevent overheating in your engine. Regular maintenance will also help to prevent leaks, oil filter problems, or other engine issues that may lead to burning oil.
Call Restored Auto, LLC for help with your engine.
If your vehicle is burning oil, you should have it looked at as soon as possible. The mechanics at Restored Auto, LLC would be happy to help you. We can run diagnostics and determine the best solution for your car. Call us today to schedule an appointment.