What Happens When an Engine Burns Oil?

[VanChristopher]

The main symptom of an engine burning oil is blue smoke coming from the exhaust pipe. If the engine shakes while the vehicle is idling, it indicates that the vehicle is experiencing oil burning. The causes of engine oil burning are as follows: Carbon deposits in piston grooves: Carbon deposits accumulate in the piston grooves, causing the piston rings to stick together. This prevents the piston rings from sealing properly, and the 'stuck' rings significantly reduce their oil-scraping and sealing capabilities. Additionally, sludge can clog the oil return holes, preventing the oil from flowing back normally, leading to increased oil consumption. Wear between pistons and cylinder walls: Carbon deposits can also accelerate wear between the pistons and cylinder walls, creating excessive gaps that allow oil to enter the combustion chamber. Aging oil seals: Valve stem seals can corrode and age, resulting in poor sealing. Valve stem seals are one of the most prone-to-wear components in an engine, and most vehicles with over 100,000 kilometers on the odometer experience this issue.