I just notice that my 2007 Prius start consuming excessive engine oil. Could you please advise what are the possible problems? As checked, there is no leakage within the engine area and also it is also smoke through the end tail of the car. I am currently using Total Quartz 5W30 Full Synthetic. The current mileage is 120K. Regards, sanlen
What does "excessive" mean? What is the oil consumption per 1,000 miles? If you can see visible exhaust emissions, that is not good. The possible problems include worn piston rings or piston bores, which can be checked by performing a cylinder leak down test; or leaking valve stem seals or valve guides, which will not be revealed via the leak down test. How long have you owned the car? If not very long, it is possible that a prior owner abused the engine by allowing the oil level to drop below the bottom dimple on the dipstick, thus causing abnormal engine wear and accelerating the rate of oil consumption.
Hi Thanks for your quick respond. Three weeks ago, i refilled the oil and drove around 600 miles in the city and found that the oil lost around 0.25L (after refilled again). I also have been monitoring the exhaust emissions and seem there is no strange sign compare to other cars. Some people said it might be because i am using the wrong type of oil (please advise what is the right engine oil for Prius). I am the gentle driver and the car has been maintained very well. Other than the oil consumption issue, i don't see any other problems with this car. I am planning to release it and go with 2007 Camry hybrid, however, i was told that i might face the same problems with the Camry. Appreciate if you could advise if the Camry really have the same problems? Regards, sanlen
One liter every 2400 miles is not excessive consumption. You have absolutely nothing to worry about. Just check your oil every other time you fill up the fuel tank. 5W-30 is the spec viscosity.
Your first post has misleading wording and it sounded like there is a lot of smoke in the exhaust. If English is not your first language, this is understandable. Many Prius cars start consuming oil at that rate around 150K miles. Mine did. Yours at 120K is a little early, but not unusual.
My 2006 Prius has had a mysterious oil burning issue forever. Burns oil but does not leak on the ground, on the engine or anywhere else. just gone. They said change the engine or check & fill the oil more often. HMMMM, So now I carry oil with me and try to remember to add a quart every week or so. It is a hassle but much easier- cheaper fix than a new engine. Costco carries a case of oil quite reasonably.