My older vehicle is burning a lot of oil. What do I do?

Regular oil and filter changes are a necessity to keeping your engine running smoothly. This is especially important as your vehicle begins to age. If you are starting to notice that you need to add engine oil on more frequently, this is an indication there is a problem. Hopefully, you are checking your oil level and condition at least once a month. With the use of synthetic oils, there is a normal amount of oil consumption in many newer vehicles. That’s not what we are referring to here. What we will be discussing in this blog post is excessive oil consumption in older vehicles.


Before identifying what could be causing the problem, let’s address oil changes. Are you getting the oil and filter changed when it should be changed? If you neglect oil changes, you’re going to have engine problems. Sludge will begin to build up in the engine, the oil filter will get clogged, and you may even begin to experience symptoms caused by corrosion. It’s also important to note that you should never run your vehicle if the Low Oil Pressure Warning light is lit up on your dashboard. This light is coming on because there is not enough oil circulating through the engine. If you continue to drive with it in this condition, the engine will seize.

One tell-tale sign that your car is burning oil can be seen in the exhaust. When you first start your car in the morning, if the exhaust smoke is blue, there’s a problem. As you drive your vehicle, the engine oil is flowing around the valves in the engine’s head. Each valve has a seal that is designed to prevent oil from entering into the combustion chamber (the place where the gasoline and air ignite). Over time, the seals will wear out. They can also wear out faster from low oil levels or if your vehicle isn’t driven very often.

Items that Can Cause Internal Burning of Oil

  • The PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) System has failed. This can lead to blown seals and gaskets.
  • Valve guides and seals are worn and have failed. Worn valve guides and seals will allow oil to enter into the combustion chamber.
  • The piston rings are worn and no longer provide a seal between the pistons and cylinder bores. If this happens, too much oil can enter the cylinders from the crankcase. This is identified by blue smoke coming out of the exhaust when accelerating.

External Leaks

Oil can also leak out of the engine at a number of points. Seals and gaskets will become dry and brittle allowing oil to leak out onto the engine. You may notice oil on the garage floor or your driveway. Common sources of oil leaks include the oil filter, oil drain plug, oil pan and gasket, oil filler cap, oil cooler lines and the valve cover gaskets and other gaskets and seals. Any oil leaks should be addressed immediately to avoid damage to the engine.

When you have your vehicle maintained at Shade Tree Garage, we can help you keep up with your regular oil and filter changes. We can also assist you in identifying why your vehicle is burning oil and correct the problem. It’s important to deal with oil leaks before they end up turning into major engine damage. Click here to schedule an appointment with Shade Tree Garage in Morristown, New Jersey.