Why is my car consuming oil? It's a question many motorists ask themselves as soon as they have to fill up more often than usual. A little oil consumption is normal in many engines, especially as they age. But when does it become too much, and what can you do about it? In this blog, we explain it step by step.
All internal combustion engines consume oil. A small amount evaporates when heating, lubricating and cooling components. Manufacturers often still consider up to 1 liter per 1,500 kilometers as acceptable, especially with powerful engines or sports cars. It only becomes problematic if you have to refill more noticeably more often or if you see smoke from the exhaust.
There are several possible causes. Wear on piston rings or valve seals causes oil to enter the combustion chamber. A leaking oil filter, porous gaskets or excessive oil pressure can also contribute. Do you often drive short stretches? Then the engine does not get warm enough, which puts extra strain on the oil and pollutes it faster.
Sporty driving, high speeds and frequent acceleration demand more from your engine. This raises the temperature and increases the pressure on the oil. This accelerates consumption. If you drive many highway miles at constant speed, oil consumption is often lower. The type of fuel also plays a role: turbocharged gasoline engines generally consume more oil than simple diesel engines.
Check that your engine has no leaks and check the oil level regularly. If in doubt, have a compression test or check the valve seals. Always use the correct engine oil with the correct viscosity level, such as the Premium Performance 5W30. An oil that is too thin burns faster and evaporates more easily.
In case of excessive oil consumption, you can switch to a higher viscosity oil, such as 5W40 instead of 5W30. This oil is slightly thicker at operating temperature and therefore burns less quickly. Make sure this is within the margins indicated by the manufacturer. You can easily check this via the product information on solution-oil.com.
Regular maintenance and using quality oil are the best way to contain oil consumption. Choose good quality oil, drive your engine warm and check the level monthly. Learn more about our oil brands and support on our about us page. Also find us here in Weert.
1. Is oil consumption normal?
Yes, to a certain extent. Up to 1 liter per 1,500 km is often considered acceptable, depending on the engine type.
2. When should I be concerned?
If you need to refill more often than usual, see blue smoke or find oil stains under your car.
3. What are common causes of high consumption?
Piston ring wear, leaking gaskets or a faulty turbocharger are known culprits.
4. Can the wrong oil have an influence?
Yes, an oil that is too thin can burn or evaporate more easily. Always use the oil your manufacturer recommends.
5. Does thicker oil help against consumption?
Sometimes it does. Higher viscosity oil burns less quickly, but always consult with a specialist.
6. Can you keep driving if you consume oil?
Yes, but you should then check and refill regularly. Also, don't forget to have the cause investigated.
7. How do I check if I am consuming oil?
Check the oil level weekly and keep track of how much you refill. Do you see smoke or smell burnt oil? Get it checked out.
8. Which oil is suitable for high consumption?
Choose a quality oil such as Premium Performance 5W30 Or consult on switching to a thicker variant such as 5W40.
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