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How can you tell if your car engine is burning oil?

Here are some signs to watch out for that may indicate your car engine is burning oil:

Blue or white smoke coming from the exhaust.

This is one of the most common signs of oil burning, especially when combined with other symptoms. Blue smoke indicates the presence of excess oil in the combustion chamber. When the engine burns this oil, it creates a bluish exhaust. White smoke is also indicative of a problem, although it is sometimes harder to distinguish between steam and oil smoke.

Excessive exhaust emissions.

Your car may puff out some black or gray smoke on startup, but this should clear up quickly. If the smoke continues or gets worse as the engine runs, it may be due to oil burning.

Low oil levels.

If you frequently need to add oil between oil changes, that could be a sign that the oil is being consumed internally by the engine. Be sure to check the oil level only when the engine is cool.

Oily residue under the car.

This could indicate that the oil leak is coming from the engine or the valve gaskets, which can lead to oil burning if not addressed.

Loss of power or acceleration.

A lack of power may indicate that the oil burning is causing engine damage, resulting in reduced compression and efficiency.

Unusual sounds from the engine.

If you notice any abnormal noises like knocking or tapping coming from the engine, it could be an indication of oil starvation.

Smell of burning oil.

If you detect a strong odor of burning oil, especially when you start the vehicle, it could be an indication of an oil leak or oil burning within the engine.

It's important to note that not all of these signs are necessarily indicative of oil burning, so getting a professional opinion or having your car inspected by a qualified mechanic is recommended if you're experiencing any of these symptoms.