Oil Consumption Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 GMC Safari and 2003 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Excessive oil consumption, not due to leaks, is the use of 1 liter (1 quart) of engine oil within 3 200 kilometers (2,000 miles). However, during initial engine break-in periods 4 828-6 437 kilometers (3,000-4,000 miles), oil consumption may exceed 1 liter (1 quart) or more. The causes of excessive oil consumption include the following conditions:

External oil leaks
Tighten the bolts and/or replace gaskets and oil seals as necessary.
Incorrect oil level or improper reading of oil level indicator
With the vehicle on a level surface, allow adequate drain down time and check for the correct oil level.
Improper oil viscosity
Use recommended SAE viscosity for the prevailing temperatures.
Continuous high speed driving and/or severe usage
Crankcase ventilation system restrictions or malfunctioning components
Valve guides and/or valve stem oil seals worn, damaged, or the seal omitted
Ream the valve guides and install oversize service valves and/or new valve stem oil seals.
Piston rings broken, improperly installed, worn, or not seated properly
Allow adequate time for the piston rings to seat.

Replace broken or worn piston rings as necessary.
Piston improperly installed or miss-fitted