I’m not very mechanically inclined, but I’m having a major issue with my 2014 Chevy Equinox, which has a 4-cylinder engine and 225,000 miles on it. I’m going through about 10 quarts of motor oil every month, and there are no visible leaks. Whenever I accelerate, there’s a lot of oil smoke coming out of the exhaust.
I’m worried that the engine might be on its last legs. Is this kind of oil consumption a sign that the motor is pretty much shot? How much longer can I expect it to last in this condition?
Also, I’m debating whether it’s worth investing in other maintenance items like brakes and rotors, given the engine’s condition. Any advice on whether I should put more money into this vehicle or start looking for a replacement would be greatly appreciated!
Your engine might be in rough shape if it’s burning 10 quarts of oil a month and smoking. It’s worth getting a mechanic’s opinion to see if it’s worth fixing or if you should look for a new car.
I once faced a similar situation with an older vehicle, where excessive oil consumption and visible smoke from the exhaust signaled major engine issues. In my case, it turned out to be worn piston rings or valve seals, which led to high oil consumption and exhaust smoke. Given the high mileage of your 2014 Chevy Equinox and the fact that you’re using about 10 quarts of oil a month without visible leaks, it sounds like the engine may indeed be nearing the end of its lifespan. If the engine is burning through oil rapidly and you’re seeing smoke, it might be more cost-effective to consider investing in a replacement vehicle rather than putting money into further maintenance. If you’re debating over brake and rotor replacements, weigh the costs against the potential need for a new engine or car. It might be worth starting to look for a replacement if you’re facing expensive repairs and ongoing issues.