What is the standard for engine oil consumption in cars?
2 Answers
The national regulatory standard is 0.3 liters per thousand kilometers. Here are the reasons for excessive oil consumption: 1. Piston ring wear or damage, misaligned or incorrectly installed piston rings: When piston rings wear out, their elasticity weakens, reducing the pressure on the cylinder walls and diminishing their oil-scraping effect. Additionally, wear between the piston rings and ring grooves increases side and back clearances, leading to more oil leakage. This is especially true when the oil ring is damaged, causing oil leakage to multiply. Moreover, misaligned or incorrectly installed piston rings create a pathway for oil splashed onto the cylinder walls to enter the combustion chamber, significantly increasing oil consumption. 2. Excessive clearance between the piston and cylinder wall: When the clearance between the piston and cylinder wall is too large or the cylinder becomes tapered or oval, the piston rings, piston, and cylinder wall cannot fit tightly. This allows splashed oil to leak into the combustion chamber and burn, drastically increasing oil consumption. 3. Use of low-viscosity oil: Low-viscosity oil is more prone to leakage and forms thinner oil films, making it easier to burn. Additionally, low-viscosity oil has a higher evaporation rate. 4. High engine speed: The higher the engine speed, the greater the centrifugal force on the crankshaft and connecting rods, causing more oil to be splashed onto the cylinder walls. The oil ring may not have enough time to scrape off this oil, leading to more oil entering the combustion chamber and burning. Furthermore, increased oil circulation raises the temperature of the oil in the oil pan, thinning the oil. Additionally, more atomized oil is carried out through the crankcase ventilation port. As a result, oil consumption increases.
The standard for engine oil consumption typically refers to a normal range of less than 0.3 liters per 1,000 kilometers driven, with specific values varying based on vehicle model and engine condition. From my own observations of various cars, I've found that new or well-maintained vehicles experience minimal loss, usually between 0.1-0.2 liters, while older vehicles may reach up to 0.5 liters without being uncommon. Contributing factors include piston ring sealing performance, engine temperature levels, and even driving habits—for instance, highway cruising can reduce fuel consumption but increase oil evaporation. It's recommended that car owners refer to the manufacturer's specifications in the vehicle manual and develop a habit of checking the dipstick monthly—measuring the oil level five minutes after turning off a cold engine to ensure it falls between the marked lines. Neglecting this may lead to insufficient engine lubrication, shortening its lifespan and ultimately increasing repair costs.
