
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.

I think monitoring oil consumption during daily driving is quite important. Generally, a standard of less than 0.5 liters per 1,000 kilometers is considered normal. Based on my experience, novice car owners can easily check it themselves: park the car, turn off the engine, wait for ten minutes, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it, and then measure the oil level. It's best to record the mileage and oil level changes every month. If the consumption exceeds the standard—for example, dropping half a liter after just 500 kilometers—it might indicate an engine seal leak or oil burning, requiring timely repairs. Otherwise, while short trips might be fine, long-distance driving poses significant risks. For instance, insufficient oil during highway driving can cause parts to overheat. Prevention involves regular oil changes using the correct viscosity grade, and avoiding delays to save money. Key inspection points include oil drips under the chassis and exhaust smoke color. Maintaining this habit can save you from major repair costs and extend your car's lifespan by over ten years.

I believe the rate of oil consumption directly impacts safe driving. The normal standard is within 0.3 liters per thousand kilometers—exceeding this should raise concern. I once encountered a fellow driver who neglected this, resulting in insufficient engine lubrication. The engine seized and failed catastrophically at high speed. I recommend checking the dipstick monthly when the engine is cold; the oil level should be midway. If consumption is abnormal, check for blue smoke from the exhaust (a sign of burning oil) or leaks under the car. Delayed maintenance could lead to costly repairs or even accidents—never take it lightly.


