What to know
- This can lead to blue or white smoke from the exhaust, a drop in oil levels, and a burning oil smell.
- High mileage oil has a higher viscosity, which helps it maintain a thicker film on engine components, reducing friction and oil consumption.
- The effectiveness of high mileage oil in reducing burning oil depends on the severity of the issue and other factors related to engine condition and maintenance.
The burning of engine oil is a common issue that can affect vehicles of all ages. While it’s not always a cause for alarm, excessive oil consumption can lead to engine damage and costly repairs. High mileage oil is specifically designed for vehicles with higher mileage, and one of its claimed benefits is reducing oil consumption. But does high mileage oil actually help with burning oil? In this blog post, we’ll explore the facts and uncover the truth behind this common automotive question.
Understanding Oil Consumption
Before delving into the role of high mileage oil, it’s essential to understand the reasons behind oil consumption. Oil is used in engines for lubrication, cooling, and cleaning. As engines age, certain components, such as piston rings and valve guides, can wear out, allowing oil to seep into the combustion chambers. This can lead to blue or white smoke from the exhaust, a drop in oil levels, and a burning oil smell.
The Role of High Mileage Oil
High mileage oil is formulated with additives specifically designed to address the needs of older engines. These additives aim to:
- Condition Seals and Gaskets: As engines age, seals and gaskets can become brittle and less effective. High mileage oil contains seal conditioners that help revitalize these components, reducing oil leaks.
- Thicken Oil Viscosity: Over time, engine oil can become thinner due to wear and heat. High mileage oil has a higher viscosity, which helps it maintain a thicker film on engine components, reducing friction and oil consumption.
- Reduce Sludge Formation: Sludge is a buildup of contaminants that can clog oil passages and restrict oil flow. High mileage oil contains detergents and dispersants that help prevent sludge formation, ensuring proper oil circulation.
Does High Mileage Oil Help with Burning Oil?
Based on the properties of high mileage oil, it’s reasonable to assume that it can help reduce oil consumption in older engines. However, the effectiveness of high mileage oil in this regard can vary depending on the severity of the oil burning issue.
- Minor Oil Consumption: If the oil consumption is relatively minor, using high mileage oil can potentially help reduce it. The thicker viscosity and seal conditioners can minimize oil leakage and improve lubrication.
- Severe Oil Consumption: In cases of severe oil burning, high mileage oil may not be sufficient to resolve the problem. More significant repairs, such as replacing worn piston rings or valve guides, may be necessary.
Other Factors to Consider
While high mileage oil can be beneficial for reducing oil consumption, it’s important to note that it’s not a miracle cure. Other factors that can contribute to burning oil include:
- Engine Condition: The overall health of the engine plays a significant role in oil consumption. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, can help keep the engine in good condition and minimize oil burning.
- Oil Type: Using the correct oil type for your vehicle is crucial. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil viscosity and specifications.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as frequent acceleration and braking, can increase oil consumption. Gentle driving habits can help extend the life of your engine and reduce oil burning.
When to Use High Mileage Oil
High mileage oil is generally recommended for vehicles with over 75,000 miles or those that are experiencing minor oil consumption. If you’re unsure whether high mileage oil is right for your vehicle, consult with a qualified mechanic.
Final Thoughts: Uncovering the Truth
The effectiveness of high mileage oil in reducing burning oil depends on the severity of the issue and other factors related to engine condition and maintenance. While it can potentially help minimize oil consumption in older engines with minor leaks, it may not be sufficient to address severe oil burning problems. Regular maintenance, proper oil selection, and gentle driving habits remain essential for maintaining engine health and minimizing oil consumption.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can high mileage oil fix my leaking oil pan gasket?
High mileage oil contains seal conditioners that can help revitalize gaskets, but it’s not guaranteed to fix a leaking oil pan gasket. The severity of the leak and the condition of the gasket will determine the effectiveness of high mileage oil.
2. How often should I change high mileage oil?
Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change intervals. Typically, high mileage oil has a longer service life than conventional oil, but it’s still important to change it regularly to maintain its effectiveness.
3. Can I use high mileage oil in a new car?
No, high mileage oil is specifically designed for older engines with higher mileage. Using it in a new car is not recommended and may not provide any additional benefits.