If you’ve noticed a burning smell while driving, or your oil level keeps dropping without any visible leak, your car might be burning oil. This is a common but serious issue—and one that shouldn’t be ignored.

At Duxler Libertyville Tire in Libertyville, IL, we’ve helped countless drivers identify and repair oil-related issues before they turn into major engine damage. Here's what you need to know if you think your car is burning oil.

What Does It Mean When a Car Is “Burning Oil”?

Burning oil happens when engine oil is getting into the combustion chamber and being burned along with fuel. It’s not normal—and it’s almost always a sign of wear or damage inside your engine.

This can happen due to:

• Worn piston rings
• Damaged valve seals or guides
• A clogged PCV valve
• Internal oil leaks from seals or gaskets

Sometimes, oil doesn’t reach the combustion chamber but drips onto hot engine components—producing smoke or a strong burning smell.

Common Signs Your Car Is Burning Oil

Wondering if it’s happening to your vehicle? Here are the most common signs:

• Blue or gray smoke from the exhaust
• Burning oil smell while driving or after parking
• Low oil levels between changes, without external leaks
• Increased oil consumption despite regular maintenance
• Oil fouling on spark plugs (in severe cases)

If you’re noticing one or more of these symptoms, it’s time for a professional inspection.

What Causes a Car to Burn Oil?

There are several reasons a car might burn oil:

1. Worn Piston Rings

Piston rings help keep oil out of the combustion chamber. If they wear down, oil can slip past and burn along with fuel.

2. Leaking Valve Seals

Valve seals prevent oil from dripping into the cylinders. When they fail, oil seeps into the combustion chamber.

3. Damaged Gaskets or Seals

Blown head gaskets, rear main seal leaks, and valve cover gasket failures can all contribute to oil entering places it shouldn’t.

4. PCV System Malfunction

A faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve can cause pressure imbalances that push oil into the combustion chamber.

Is It the Same as an Oil Leak?

Not necessarily. Burning oil may happen internally (inside the engine), while oil leaks are usually external and result in oil dripping onto the ground.

However, some issues—like a leaking valve cover gasket—can contribute to both oil loss and a burning smell if oil drips onto hot components.

If you’ve noticed burning oil, it’s a good idea to also check for oil leaks. Left unchecked, either issue can lead to serious engine damage.

Get Expert Diagnosis at Duxler Libertyville Tire

Whether your car is burning oil, leaking it, or doing both, our ASE-certified technicians will get to the root of the problem. We’ll inspect your engine, perform pressure and leak-down tests if needed, and give you honest repair recommendations—without upselling or guesswork.

Worried your car is burning oil? Call Duxler Libertyville Tire at (847) 367-6710 or book your appointment online today.