Is Your Car Burning Oil? Signs to Watch For Do you keep topping up your car’s oil? Is there blue smoke trailing from your exhaust? These might mean your car is burning oil. Many drivers miss this problem until it’s too late. Burning oil isn’t just an inconvenience. It could signal something more serious happening under the hood. Ignoring it can lead to bigger issues. Your engine might lose performance. In some cases, it could even fail completely. So, how do you know it’s happening? What are the signs? And what should you do? This blog will cover it all. You’ll find out how to spot the issue, what is causing it, and also discover practical solutions. Acting quickly can save you time, money and prevent frustration. Let’s begin!
What Does “Burning Oil” Mean? Burning oil occurs when oil escapes into the combustion chamber and burns along with the fuel. This can happen for several reasons, including worn piston rings, damaged valve seals, or issues with the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system. Over time, this not only reduces the oil levels in your engine but can also lead to long-term damage if not addressed promptly.
Common Signs Your Car Might Be Burning Oil Blue Smoke From the Exhaust One of the most noticeable signs is blue smoke coming out of the exhaust. This happens when oil burns along with fuel, creating a distinct blue-colored emission. If you see this, especially during acceleration, it’s a clear indicator that something is wrong.
Frequent Oil Top-Ups Are you finding yourself topping up the oil more often than usual? If so, your engine might be consuming oil faster than it should. While some oil consumption is normal, a significant drop between oil changes isn’t.
Burning Oil Smell A sharp, burnt smell inside or outside the vehicle could mean oil is leaking onto hot engine parts. This smell is unmistakable and should prompt you to check for leaks or internal burning.
Poor Engine Performance Burning oil can affect your car’s performance, causing reduced power, sluggish acceleration, or even rough idling. This is especially true if oil is contaminating your spark plugs.
Causes of Oil Burning There are several reasons why your car might start burning oil: ● ● ●
Worn Piston Rings: When the rings wear out, they can’t create a proper seal, allowing oil to seep into the combustion chamber. Leaky Valve Seals: Damaged seals can let oil drip into the engine cylinders. Damaged Gaskets: Faulty gaskets might allow oil to escape and burn.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to get a professional diagnosis. Trusted auto wreckers like Bunbury Auto Wreckers can help inspect your car and provide the parts you might need for a cost-effective repair.
What Happens If You Ignore Burning Oil? Ignoring the signs of oil burning can lead to severe engine damage. As oil levels drop, your engine loses the lubrication it needs to function, leading to increased friction, overheating, and eventually, complete failure. In some cases, repairing the issue might be too expensive, especially for older vehicles. That’s where services like Holden Wreckers Perth come in. They specialize in recycling and dismantling cars, helping you get value from your vehicle, even if it’s no longer roadworthy.
How to Address the Issue Here’s what you can do if your car is burning oil: ● ● ●
Check Oil Levels Regularly: Keep an eye on the dipstick to ensure the oil isn’t dropping too quickly. Inspect for Leaks: Look under the car and around the engine for signs of oil leakage. Seek Professional Help: A qualified mechanic can diagnose the exact cause and recommend the best solution, whether it’s replacing seals, repairing gaskets, or overhauling the engine.
When Repairs Aren’t Worth It In some cases, especially for older vehicles, the cost of repairs might outweigh the car’s value. If you’re in Perth and facing such a dilemma, consider selling your car to Best West Car Removal. We offer top dollar for cars in any condition, whether they’re roadworthy or ready for scrapping. With our expert car wrecking and recycling services, we ensure your vehicle is dismantled responsibly, maximizing its value through recycling and reselling parts.
Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs If your car is burning oil, act quickly to prevent further damage. Whether you decide to repair it or sell it, the key is to address the issue promptly. At Best West Car Removal, we make it easy for Perth residents to get rid of unwanted vehicles, offering a hassle-free process and top cash. Get in touch today and let us turn your old car into value. Need expert advice or a quick car removal service? Visit Best West Car Removal. ========================================================================
