What Causes Engine Oil Reduction in Cars?
2 Answers
Reasons for engine oil reduction in cars: 1. Aging of cylinders, pistons, or piston rings; 2. Weakened sealing of valve guides; 3. Aging of engine body sealing rings, leading to weakened sealing; 4. Loose oil pan screws. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction in the engine, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and act as a shock absorber. Engine oil consists of base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve any deficiencies in the base oil's performance. It is categorized into diesel engine oil and gasoline engine oil.
Having driven for over 20 years, I can list several common causes of oil consumption. The most frequent is engine oil burning, meaning oil enters the combustion chamber and gets burned – blue smoke from the exhaust or reduced power are telltale signs. Another issue is oil leaks, such as aging or cracked oil pan gaskets, which leave oil stains on the ground when parked. I check the dipstick every 1,000-2,000 km. When it drops below the minimum level, I top up with the same oil grade as a temporary fix. However, constantly adding oil isn't a solution, as it masks root causes like worn piston rings or faulty seals, accelerating engine wear, shortening lifespan, or even requiring major repairs. Normal consumption is about 0.5 liters per 1,000 km – exceeding this warrants attention. Oil evaporates faster in summer heat, but distinguish between normal and problematic loss. I recommend having mechanics inspect engine seals during each service to fix minor leaks early, saving money and ensuring safety. Neglecting leaks may cause engine overheating, posing risks during high-speed driving.
