How to Tell if an Engine is Burning Oil?
2 Answers
Whether an engine is burning oil is mainly indicated by whether blue smoke comes out of the exhaust pipe. If the engine burns oil, blue smoke will be emitted from the exhaust pipe. The composition of an engine includes: 1. Engine block group: cylinder head, cylinder block, and crankcase; 2. Crankshaft connecting rod mechanism: piston, connecting rod, crankshaft, flywheel; 3. Valve train and intake/exhaust system: intake valve, exhaust valve, tappet, push rod, rocker arm, camshaft, and camshaft timing gear; 4. Fuel supply system and governor: fuel tank, sediment cup, diesel filter, fuel pump, injection pump, and governor; 5. Starting device: clutch mechanism, flywheel ring gear, starter switch, battery.
When I drove my old car, I encountered the issue of the engine burning oil. At that time, I noticed the car emitted noticeably blue smoke, especially during cold starts or sudden acceleration—a trail of blue smoke would follow the tail. Later, when I checked the dipstick, I found the oil level was dropping much faster than usual, almost reaching the bottom within a month. The engine noise also became louder, and the car felt sluggish when starting. In such cases, I often stopped to open the hood and check the oil color—normally clear, but when burning oil, it might turn black or have a burnt smell. I recommend regular checks; don’t wait for a major issue to repair it. Paying attention to these small signs daily can save a lot of money and trouble. If something seems off, it’s best to have a professional shop inspect areas like the piston rings and seals.
