What Causes Increased Engine Oil Consumption?
2 Answers
Increased engine oil consumption may be caused by the following reasons: 1. Piston ring wear or damage. When piston rings wear out, their elasticity weakens, reducing the pressure on the cylinder wall and diminishing their oil-scraping function. Additionally, wear between piston rings and ring grooves increases side clearance and back clearance, leading to more oil being drawn into the combustion chamber. This effect is magnified several times if the oil control ring is damaged. 2. Excessive clearance between the piston and cylinder wall. If the fit between the piston and cylinder wall becomes too loose or the cylinder wears into a tapered or oval shape, the piston rings, piston, and cylinder wall cannot seal properly. Splashed oil will then enter the combustion chamber through the gaps and burn, causing a significant increase in oil consumption. 3. Severe wear of the intake valve guide. During the intake stroke, engine oil can be drawn into the cylinder in large quantities through the gap between the valve stem and guide hole under the vacuum effect of the intake manifold, where it is burned. 4. Use of low-viscosity oil. Low-viscosity oil is more prone to being drawn into the combustion chamber, forms a thinner oil film that is easily burned, and also has a higher evaporation rate.
Recently, I've noticed increased oil consumption, which might be due to minor engine issues. For example, worn piston rings can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber and burn off—I've encountered this before, and it's quite annoying. If the valve seals are aged or leaking, oil can also deplete faster. Aggressive driving habits, like frequently speeding on highways, can raise engine temperatures and increase oil evaporation. It's advisable to regularly check oil levels; if you notice a rapid drop, get it inspected promptly to avoid potential engine damage and bigger problems. Additionally, poor oil quality can contribute—using inferior oil leads to higher consumption, so choosing a reputable oil brand is crucial. I remember after a long-distance drive, my oil consumption was abnormal, and it turned out to be a faulty oil seal; after repair, it returned to normal. Overall, don't delay addressing such issues—early fixes can save significant costs.
