How do you fix a car that burns oil? If you’ve been noticing that your car is consuming more oil than usual, or if you see blue smoke coming out of the exhaust, it’s likely that your car is burning oil. This can be a cause for concern, as it can lead to engine damage and decreased performance. However, fixing a car that burns oil doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, we will discuss 5 easy steps to fix a car that burns oil.
Table of Contents
- Symptoms of a Car Burning Oil
- Understanding the Causes of Oil Burning
- DIY Oil Burning Test
- Top 3 Solutions for Fixing Oil Burning
- How to Prevent Your Car from Burning Oil
- When to Seek Professional Help for Oil Burning
Symptoms of a Car Burning Oil
Before we dive into the steps to fix a car that burns oil, let’s first understand the common symptoms of this issue. Here are some signs that indicate your car is burning oil:
- Excessive oil consumption
- Blue smoke from the exhaust
- Oil leaks
- Reduced engine performance
- Foul smell from the exhaust
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your car.
Understanding the Causes of Oil Burning
There are several reasons why a car may burn oil. Some common causes include:
- Worn piston rings
- Valve guide seals failure
- PCV valve malfunction
- Engine overheating
- Incorrect oil viscosity
Identifying the root cause of the oil burning problem is crucial in determining the appropriate solution.
DIY Oil Burning Test
Before proceeding with fixing the issue, you can perform a simple DIY oil burning test to confirm that your car is indeed burning oil. Here’s how to do it:
- Start your car and let it warm up.
- Remove the oil dipstick and observe the color and smell of the oil.
- If the oil appears dark, smells burnt, or has a milky texture, it may indicate oil burning.
- Consult a professional mechanic for a thorough diagnosis.
Top 3 Solutions for Fixing Oil Burning
Once you’ve confirmed that your car is burning oil, you can consider the following solutions:
- Replace worn piston rings or valve guide seals: This is a more complex repair that may require professional assistance.
- Address PCV valve issues: The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve plays a crucial role in regulating oil consumption. If it’s malfunctioning, it can lead to oil burning. Check and replace the PCV valve if necessary.
- Use high-quality oil and perform regular maintenance: Using the correct oil viscosity and changing it at the recommended intervals can help reduce oil burning. Additionally, keeping up with regular maintenance, such as oil filter replacement, can prevent oil-related issues.
How to Prevent Your Car from Burning Oil
Prevention is always better than cure. To prevent your car from burning oil, follow these tips:
- Regularly check the oil level and top it up as needed.
- Use high-quality engine oil that meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Follow the recommended oil change intervals.
- Keep your engine properly tuned and maintained.
- Keep an eye out for any signs of oil leaks and address them promptly.
When to Seek Professional Help for Oil Burning
While some oil burning issues can be resolved through DIY methods, there are instances where it’s best to seek professional help. Consider consulting a mechanic in the following situations:
- If you’re unsure about the cause of the oil burning.
- If the solutions mentioned earlier didn’t resolve the issue.
- If your car’s performance continues to decline despite your efforts.
- If you lack the necessary mechanical skills and tools to perform complex repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions about how do you fix a car that burns oil
- Q: Can I drive my car if it’s burning oil?
- A: It’s not recommended to drive a car that’s burning oil as it can lead to engine damage. It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible.
- Q: How much does it cost to fix a car that burns oil?
- A: The cost of fixing a car that burns oil can vary depending on the underlying issue. Simple repairs like replacing valve guide seals may cost a few hundred dollars, while more complex repairs like replacing piston rings can cost upwards of a thousand dollars.
- Q: Can additives fix oil burning?
- A: While there are oil additives available in the market that claim to reduce oil consumption, they are not a permanent solution. It’s best to address the root cause of the oil burning problem rather than relying solely on additives.
Expert Advice
Seeking the expertise of a qualified mechanic is always recommended when dealing with oil burning issues. A professional can accurately diagnose the problem and provide the most suitable solution for your specific car.
Remember, addressing oil burning promptly can help prevent further damage to your car’s engine and ensure optimal performance. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you’ll be on your way to fixing a car that burns oil.
As a seasoned mechanic and proud owner of three successful car workshops, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people just like you overcome their everyday automotive challenges. I created this website as a labor of love, with a simple mission: to make car maintenance and repairs more accessible and approachable for the “average joe.”