Why Is My Car Using Too Much Oil? Common Causes and What to Do
Is your car using more oil than usual? If you’re constantly topping up your oil between services, it could be a sign of a leak or a deeper engine issue. While some oil usage is normal, excessive oil consumption can lead to engine damage if ignored.
At Peers Auto Spares, we help drivers across South Africa get to the root of oil-related problems by offering reliable oil filters, spark plugs, and engine parts. Let’s break down the possible causes — and what you can do to fix them.
🔍 How Much Oil Usage Is Normal?
Most modern engines use a small amount of oil between services (usually under 1 litre per 1,500–2,000 km). But if your car is using a litre of oil every few hundred kilometres, it’s time to investigate.
🚗 1. Worn Piston Rings or Cylinder Walls
Piston rings seal the combustion chamber. If they’re worn out, oil sneaks past into the combustion chamber and burns along with the fuel. This often causes:
- Blue smoke from the exhaust
- Poor fuel economy
- Fouled spark plugs
🔧 Replace spark plugs regularly if oil is entering the cylinders. Shop spark plugs compatible with your vehicle at Peers Auto Spares.
🛢️ 2. Oil Leaks
The most obvious reason for oil loss is an external leak. Common leak points include:
- Valve cover gasket
- Oil pan gasket
- Crankshaft seals
Clues:
- Oil stains on driveway
- Burning oil smell
- Smoke from engine bay
💡 Use a flashlight to check under your car and around the engine. A new oil filter or seal might be all you need.
🔩 3. Old or Dirty Oil Filter
A clogged oil filter can restrict oil flow or fail to filter properly. This leads to overheating, reduced lubrication, and in some cases, excessive oil consumption as the engine works harder.
🛒 Replace your oil filter during every oil change — available at Peers Auto Spares for most car models.
🌡️ 4. Engine Running Too Hot
Overheating breaks down oil faster. Thin, broken-down oil may leak past seals or burn off, increasing consumption.
Causes of overheating:
- Faulty radiator or thermostat
- Low coolant
- Dirty air filter reducing airflow
🔧 Keep your engine cool and efficient with a clean air filter and proper servicing.
🧰 5. PCV Valve Failure
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve helps control engine pressure. A faulty PCV can allow oil to enter the intake system and be burned off — leading to loss.
Look for:
- Whistling or sucking sounds
- Oil in air intake hose
- Excessive oil usage with no visible leaks
🔧 6. Wrong Oil Type
Using oil that’s too thin or not suited for your car can lead to faster burn-off. Always use oil recommended by your vehicle’s manual or mechanic.
🔍 How to Check for Excessive Oil Use
- Monitor oil levels weekly (using the dipstick)
- Check for oil stains under your car
- Watch the exhaust for blue or white smoke
- Replace spark plugs and inspect them for oil fouling
🛠️ What You Can Do
Depending on the issue, you may need to:
- Replace spark plugs
- Install a new oil filter
- Fix leaks (gaskets/seals)
- Clean or replace air filter
-
Change to proper oil viscosity
🧰 Browse oil filters, spark plugs, and air filters at Peers Auto Spares — and keep your engine running clean.
💡 Prevention Tips
- Change oil and filter every 10,000 km or as recommended
- Use high-quality oil and correct grade
- Replace filters regularly
- Check for leaks every few months
- Don’t ignore engine warning lights
✅ Final Thoughts
Excessive oil use can be a sign of something minor — like a worn filter — or something more serious like engine wear. Either way, regular maintenance and quality parts make all the difference.
At Peers Auto Spares, we offer:
- Affordable, high-quality oil filters, spark plugs, and air filters
- Fast delivery across South Africa
- Support to help you choose the right parts
🔧 Visit our online store to shop now or contact us for expert help with your oil issues.
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