What is the normal oil consumption for a car?
2 Answers
The national regulatory standard is 0.3 liters per thousand kilometers, but generally, the measured consumption is around 0.2 liters. Under normal circumstances, the reasons for engine oil consumption are as follows: 1. Oil is used to lubricate the pistons, piston rings, and cylinders. When the piston moves downward in the cylinder, it leaves a thin oil film on the cylinder wall. During vehicle deceleration, the high negative pressure generated draws some of this oil into the combustion chamber. This oil, along with part of the oil film remaining on the cylinder wall, is burned by the high-temperature combustion gases during the combustion process. 2. Oil is used to lubricate the intake valve stems. This oil is drawn into the combustion chamber along with the intake air and burned together with the fuel. High-temperature exhaust gases also burn the oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve stems. The amount of oil consumption is related to the viscosity of the oil, the quality of the oil, and the driving conditions of the vehicle.
I've also asked about this oil consumption issue before. After driving for so many years, I feel that a normal consumption rate is within 0.5 liters per 1,000 kilometers, especially for cars using full synthetic oil, which consumes even less. If you notice the oil level dropping too quickly, like a significant decrease in just a week, it might indicate internal engine wear or an oil leak. I make it a habit to check the oil dipstick every week, and if the level is too low, I top it up immediately to avoid engine cylinder scuffing under high temperatures. Normal consumption won't affect performance, but if it's too high, you'll need to take it to the repair shop to check things like piston rings. Developing good maintenance habits can save you both hassle and money.
