Glossary / General

burning oil

10 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Burning oil means that the engine is using up the oil as fuel, which can create smoke and is usually a sign that something is wrong with the engine. It's not good for the car's health.

Technical Definition

Burning oil refers to the process where engine oil is consumed in the combustion chamber, leading to smoke in the exhaust and potentially causing damage to the engine over time. It can indicate wear and tear or other issues within the engine.

Hear It Discussed

"And this thing we know is burning oil. So you need to check your oil every three or four gas tanks."
Real vs. Virtual Driving, No More Clutch?, The New One Is Better | Episode 1,043 Everyday Driver Car Debate 04:05

"Well, we thought it might be rings because it's burning oil and it's got a lot of blue smoke. Oh, you didn't mention that, Sylvia?"
#2608: Where Engines Never Warm Up The Best of Car Talk 08:25

"Well, that's probably what happened to your, your, your engine. You know, you, you were burning oil and that was causing your, your problem."
Get Ready For Free Car Repair Under The Hood show 19:46