How to Solve Oil Spray from the Exhaust Pipe?
3 Answers
There are many reasons that can cause a sudden spray of a large amount of oil from the exhaust pipe, with the most likely cause being aging of the crankcase ventilation valve. If the ventilation valve is aging, or if there is excessive wear on the pistons, cylinder liners, or piston rings, replacing the corresponding components can resolve the issue.
I recently encountered the issue of oil spraying from the breather pipe, which filled the car with a strong oil smell – really annoying. At first, I thought it was a minor problem, but later realized it was likely caused by worn piston rings or excessive cylinder pressure, preventing proper oil-gas separation and causing direct spray. The solution requires a step-by-step approach: First, check if the spark plugs and ignition system are functioning properly, as this affects combustion efficiency. Then inspect the PCV valve (that’s the crankcase ventilation valve) – if it’s clogged or worn out, replace it immediately. Clean the intake pipe and exhaust system, as sludge buildup can cause blockages. Finally, if a compression test reveals abnormal cylinder pressure, a major overhaul to replace the piston rings might be necessary. By the way, using high-quality engine oil regularly and keeping the engine clean can prevent this issue. Otherwise, excessive oil spraying can damage the catalytic converter, which isn’t worth the trouble. If you’re doing it yourself, just prepare a toolbox, but if you lack experience, it’s best to check video tutorials first – safety comes first.
As a driver with over 20 years of experience, I've seen many cases of oil spraying from the breather pipe. The core issues usually involve excessive internal engine pressure or failed oil-gas separation, such as piston ring sealing failure or PCV system malfunction. Practical solutions are needed: First, use a pressure gauge to measure cylinder compression ratio (normal range is 12-15 bar); then inspect the breather valve and pipes for damage or leaks; thoroughly clean the entire system, especially carbon buildup in oil passages which often causes backspray. My own old car once required a new valve replacement costing a few hundred yuan, after which fuel consumption actually decreased. Remember to use fuel additives for carbon deposit removal – it helps extend engine life. Don't delay repairs too long, as severe oil spraying may damage sensors. Regular maintenance with manual checks allows simple DIY prevention, saving repair costs.
