Does the Peugeot 408 1.6T Burn Engine Oil?
2 Answers
Cases of the Peugeot 408 1.6T burning engine oil are relatively rare. The reasons that can cause a car to burn engine oil are as follows: 1. Poor fuel quality: The primary reason for engine oil burning is poor fuel quality. If the fuel cannot be fully combusted, it will form a large amount of carbon deposits. Over time, these deposits accumulate and thicken, with some entering the pistons, causing piston ring sticking and clogging the oil return holes. This creates gaps in the engine, allowing air to enter the combustion chamber and participate in combustion, leading to the phenomenon of burning engine oil. 2. Traffic congestion causing incomplete fuel combustion: Due to traffic congestion, fuel cannot be burned efficiently, generating large amounts of carbon deposits. These deposits clog the oil return holes, preventing the oil scraper rings from removing oil from the cylinder walls. The oil then remains in the combustion chamber and burns, causing the engine oil burning phenomenon. 3. Aging valve stem seals: Aging valve stem seals can also lead to burning engine oil. Valve stem seals are made of heat- and oil-resistant rubber. These seals are exposed to high temperatures, gasoline, and engine oil, along with temperature fluctuations between hot and cold conditions. Over time, the plasticizers in the seals deplete, causing them to shrink and allowing engine oil to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in burning engine oil. 4. Substandard engine oil quality: Poor-quality engine oil is another reason for burning oil. If the oil does not meet standards, its lubricating effect weakens. Combined with carbon buildup, the oil loses its lubricating properties, making it easier to wear down the cylinder walls. This wear increases engine temperature, quickly leading to cylinder scoring or even engine failure.
That Peugeot 408 equipped with the 1.6T engine, which I drove for several years, did have some oil consumption issues. This problem is quite common, especially in high-mileage vehicles or certain model years, like those from 2014 to 2017, due to a design flaw in the piston rings that allows oil to seep into the combustion chamber and burn. During normal driving, you'll notice the oil level drops quickly, requiring a top-up every month, and blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. It's not just me—many owners on forums have complained about it. Proper maintenance can help mitigate the issue, but it's costly and frustrating in the long run. Newer models might fare better, but once you hit over 60,000 kilometers, you need to keep a close eye on it. I recommend having the technician check the oil level and engine seals during every service to prevent the problem from worsening. Oil consumption affects engine longevity and could lead to major repairs. It's best to use genuine OEM oil or higher viscosity options to try and improve the situation.
