Is Oil Burning Common in Subaru Vehicles?
2 Answers
Oil burning is common in Subaru vehicles. A significant portion of Subarus experience oil burning issues, primarily due to the following reasons: 1. Adsorption: The use of horizontally opposed engine technology means that some oil adsorbed on the cylinder walls (within the piston ring gaps) can be drawn into the combustion chamber and burned. 2. Uneven Wear: Horizontally opposed engines can lead to uneven wear, which naturally results in oil burning. Additional relevant information includes: 1. Oil Consumption: During engine operation, a minimal amount of oil coating the cylinder walls will burn off, which is normal oil consumption. It's important to regularly check the oil level and top it up when necessary. 2. Repair and Restoration: After a certain period of engine operation, significant oil burning may occur due to wear on the cylinders, pistons, and rings, at which point the engine will require repair.
I've been driving a Subaru Forester for five years, with the mileage exceeding 100,000 kilometers, and I've noticed that the oil consumption is indeed a bit fast—about half a liter needs to be added every 2,000 kilometers. This seems quite common in older Subaru models, especially the 2013 to 2015 FB25 engine variants. Friends driving Outbacks and Legacys have also reported similar issues, with some mentioning that the oil light frequently comes on. The root cause might be inadequate piston ring sealing leading to oil seeping into the combustion chamber, or valve-related problems. While newer cars consume less oil, it's more prevalent in older models. I recommend checking the dipstick more often, at least every two weeks, and using full synthetic oil can help alleviate the issue. Regular maintenance is crucial; neglecting it can lead to increased carbon buildup, affecting engine longevity. In car enthusiast groups, many have shared cases reminding others not to delay repairs to avoid greater losses.
