Has your Volkswagen gotten thirstier for oil???
Oil aids a car engine with many different things. It makes sure that parts employed to generate and process mechanical torque remains properly lubricated. Besides… it is because of this fluid- your VW engine temperature stays stable. Given how important oil is for a car engine, it is advised that you keep an eye on your VW’s engine oil level. And if you suspect abnormal oil consumption, reach out to a certified mechanic immediately.
Here’s What It Could Mean
If your Volkswagen is burning oil at an alarming rate, it could be due to one of the following reasons;
#1- Bad piston ring pack
Although piston rings are made of high-strength material, they are not immune to deterioration. Continual exposure to extreme temperature and pressure may cause these rings to degrade. Worn piston rings won’t be able to appropriately seal the gap between the piston and cylinder wall. This is something that might result in accelerated oil consumption among other problems.
#2- Worn valve seals
Valve seals essentially encase intake and exhaust valves to prevent unsanctioned oil loss into the combustion chamber. As with piston rings, valve seals can wear out over time. Worn valve seals won’t be able to hold back motor oil in its designated passageway and oil may leak into the combustion chamber and get burned there along with air-fuel mixture.
#3- Defective PCV valve
Not only that PCV valve (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) minimize engine emission, but it also plays a crucial role in regulating pressure within the crankcase. It does that by channeling gases from the crankcase to the intake manifold. If it malfunctions, excess oil vapor may get directed to the combustion chamber- resulting in increased oil consumption.
#4- Extreme temperature
Another reason why a car engine may start burning oil at an accelerated rate is that it is running hot and may overheat soon if adequate measures are not employed. Besides, not providing the engine the maintenance it deserves such as routine oil changes and tune-ups can also speed up oil consumption in a vehicle.
So, What Can Be Done About It?
There are a few things that you can do to prohibit your VW engine from burning oil at an accelerated rate;
#1- Regular maintenance
One way to stop a car engine from burning oil at an abnormal rate is by ensuring its upkeep. Change its oil and tune it up periodically to make sure that it operates smoothly and efficiently. If it occurs to you that there is something off with your Volkswagen’s engine, get it checked by a certified professional.
#2- Cooling system care
A car engine that’s running hot is likely to burn oil at a faster pace than the one that’s running within the idle operating temperature range. So if you want to prohibit your Volkswagen engine from burning oil erratically, ensure the upkeep of its engine cooling system. Check on its coolant level from time to time and if necessary top it up.
#3- Check for leaks
Have you been noticing traces of oil under your car lately? Don’t take it for granted. Locate the source of the leak and have it fixed- if you don’t want to end up with an expensive engine repair down the road. Besides you should also check on your vehicle’s oil level from time to time and if it occurs to you that your vehicle’s oil level has dropped drastically, consider topping it up.
#4- Replace defective seals
Car engines come fitted with many different types of seals and gaskets; from valve seals to piston rings. If your Volkswagen is burning oil at a faster pace and you have no clue what’s going on, the very first thing that you should do is to check different engine seals and gaskets for signs of damage. If there is indeed a defective seal, get it replaced immediately.
Escondido German Auto: Your Trusted Volkswagen Service Center
At Escondido German Auto, we know how inconvenient it can be to drive a vehicle that burns oil at an abnormal pace. Such an issue could point to one of many different things going on with a vehicle’s engine. So, if your Volkswagen engine is burning oil, don’t take it for granted. Visit our service center in Escondido, CA, to have your vehicle checked by one of our certified technicians. Call us or visit our website to schedule an appointment today!
* Lady Driving Volkswagen Car image credit goes to: Olga Chetvergova.