Important: Complaints of high engine oil consumption are not always thoroughly investigated
before major repairs are performed. During initial engine break in, it is normal
for the engine to use from 1-3 quarts of oil during the first 3,000-6,000 miles,
depending on driving conditions.
- Check the engine for external oil leakage and the air intake and PCV systems
for excessive oil pull over.
- Change the engine oil and filter. Four quarts of oil are required to properly
fill the crankcase.
- Reset the "Change Oil Soon" telltale lamp. Refer to Lubrication.
- Warm the engine up and check the oil level after approximately 10 minutes
with vehicle on a level surface. Note exactly where the dipstick reads, relative
to the dipstick full mark.
- Inform the customer an oil consumption test is now in progress and any
oil added must be documented.
- Record the vehicle's mileage, date of oil change and exact location of
oil level on the Customer Service Order and the "Oil Consumption Test"
worksheet.
- Have the customer check the engine oil level at each fuel fill and return
the vehicle if the oil level is at the "ADD" mark. If the oil level remains in the
"CROSS HATCH" area, have the customer continue operating the vehicle for a minimum
of 2,000 miles before returning the vehicle for final oil consumption verification.
| • | If the engine uses more than 1 quart of oil in 2,000 miles
after the initial 3,000 mile break in period, document oil consumption usage
on the Customer Service Order and perform a compression check as outlined in this
section. |
| - | If cylinder compression is found within acceptable limits, replace the
valve stem seals. |
| - | If compression is not found within acceptable limits, perform engine cylinder
leakage test and crankcase pressure check. Repair as necessary. |
| • | If the engine does not use more than 1 quart of oil in 2,000 miles
after the initial 3,000 mile break in period, oil consumption is considered
to be normal. |
