Why does my Chevy Equinox burn oil fast?
As a trusted auto service provider with years of experience in car maintenance and repair, I’ve encountered many Chevy Equinox owners who are concerned about excessive oil consumption. This issue can be frustrating and potentially harmful to your engine if left unaddressed. In this article, I’ll explain the common reasons why your Chevy Equinox might be burning oil quickly and what you can do about it.
Understanding Excessive Oil Consumption
Oil is essential for lubricating your engine’s components and ensuring smooth operation. However, when your vehicle burns oil faster than normal, it can lead to engine damage, reduced performance, and costly repairs. Chevy Equinox models, particularly those from certain years, are known to experience this issue due to a variety of factors.
Common Causes of Oil Burning in a Chevy Equinox
Here are some of the most common reasons why your Chevy Equinox might be burning oil faster than expected:
- Piston Ring Issues: Faulty or worn-out piston rings can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber, where it burns along with fuel. This is a common issue in some Chevy Equinox models, especially those with high mileage.
- PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) System Problems: A malfunctioning PCV valve can cause excessive pressure in the crankcase, leading to oil being pushed into the intake manifold and burned.
- Engine Design Flaws: Certain Chevy Equinox engines, such as the 2.4L Ecotec engine, have been reported to have design flaws that contribute to excessive oil consumption. These flaws may include inadequate piston design or insufficient oil control.
- Oil Leaks: While not technically "burning" oil, leaks can cause oil levels to drop quickly. Check for visible leaks around the engine, oil pan, or valve cover gaskets.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, frequent high-speed driving, or towing heavy loads can increase oil consumption in any vehicle, including the Chevy Equinox.
How to Address the Problem
If you suspect your Chevy Equinox is burning oil too quickly, here are some steps you can take to address the issue:
- Check Your Oil Regularly: Monitor your oil levels frequently and top off as needed to prevent engine damage.
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for visible oil leaks and have them repaired promptly.
- Replace the PCV Valve: If the PCV valve is faulty, replacing it can help reduce oil consumption.
- Consider Engine Repairs: If the issue is related to piston rings or other internal components, you may need to consult a professional mechanic for repairs. This can be costly but is necessary to prevent further damage.
- Update Engine Software: In some cases, a software update from the manufacturer can help address oil consumption issues. Check with your local Chevy dealership for any available updates or recalls.
When to Seek Professional Help
While some oil consumption is normal, excessive burning should not be ignored. If you’re adding oil frequently or noticing symptoms like blue smoke from the exhaust, reduced engine performance, or unusual noises, it’s time to bring your Chevy Equinox to a trusted auto repair shop. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing oil consumption issues to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
Don’t let excessive oil consumption damage your engine. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get your Chevy Equinox back on the road in top condition!
Frequently Asked Questions
What year does Equinox have oil consumption problems?
Class actions have been filed regarding the 2010-2017 Chevrolet Equinox SUVs equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines. One lawsuit claims the Ecotec engine burns too much oil and causes low oil pressure, knocking, fouled spark plugs, damage to the timing chains and complete engine failure.
What is the Chevy oil consumption lawsuit?
The initial lawsuit filed in September 2018 claimed that model year 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines contained a defect leading to a high volume of oil being consumed, and owners having to replace oil more as a result.
What is the recall on the Chevy Equinox engine?
2021 Chevrolet Equinox Recall
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2022 Chevrolet Equinox and 2022 GMC Terrain vehicles. The fuel pump module may not consistently provide sufficient fuel to the engine, resulting in an engine stall.
How do you fix oil burning fast?
The fix for an engine that is burning oil is usually to hone the cylinder and put in a new set of rings sized to the new dimension. Sometimes switching to a higher viscosity oil or using an additive with the oil can reduce the oil consumption.
