Engine Problem

[song_robin]

Hi everyone,

I could really use some help here. I'm losing a lot of oil but there's no leak on the driveway. It runs bone-dry after a couple thousand miles.

The engine runs louder than normal when idling. I thought it was because there was no oil, but after 3 quarts, it's still pretty loud.

I feel the gas mileage is really degraded as well, but I have no solid numbers to give.

If there's any tips I can get, I would truly appreciate it!

Thank you!

 

[Robotazky]

Time for a compression test. Any decent mechanic shop can do it for $50 or so.

 

[song_robin]

Time for a compression test. Any decent mechanic shop can do it for $50 or so.

I talked to a close friend and he says that the compression test will only reveal an expensive fix in the engine. I'm at 130k miles (coming at 10 years now). He tells me that even if I had to feed an extra quart every 2 weeks for the rest of the life of the car, it'll still be cheaper than getting the compression test and trying to fix the problem.

What do you think? Your thoughts are greatly appreciated!

Thank you

 

[flcruising]

You're choice.

Internal oil leaks could be piston rings, head gasket, valve stem seals, etc. A compression test will tell you the health of your piston rings, head gasket, and valve seats. You can 'barrow' the tester from AutoZone and have your friend help you perform the test if you are able.

Alternatively, use higher viscosity oil (like 5W-40 or 10W-40) and see if it affects your consumption.

If you plan on keeping the car, get it fixed. If you have alternative transportation, do what your friend said. Either way, you have unusually high oil consumption and could be biding your time for when it finally quits running.

 

[Rosskie]

If you want a cheap fix go for it. But il be looking for your next post, I have a clapping sound. Run the engine dry or low oil and spin the bearings

 

[Vasy]

Doing the compression test will help guide toward the problem.
Just because you do it, does not meant you have to fix it. It is best to know why/where you are leaking.
You may still chose not to repair the car, at least know why.
Also check you coolant, if oil is leaking there, you are done and repairs will need to be done now.

 

[Robotazky]

Also check you coolant, if oil is leaking there, you are done and repairs will need to be done now.

Good advice.