Oil Level

[jonoman69]

Hi, I have a 2004 chevy silverado with a 5.3 in it. It only has 72,000 km on it. But so far ever since i bought it, about a month ago at around 66000km, I've had to put a little over a quart of oil in it. It runs fine, no oil spot under the vehicle and it doesnt put out blow smoke. Is this anything to worry about?

 

Thanks, any help is appreciated

[Zembonez]

Is this anything to worry about?

I don't think a quart of oil between changes would alarm me but I don't know if it is considered normal.

 

72000KM is about 45000 miles right? That isn't many miles on a 5.3. I don't think most would use that much oil in approx 3700 miles. I've never had to add oil between changes in mine. When I had 5.7 Chevy trucks, I had to add 1/2 to 1 quart of oil between changes and never had a problem beyond that. I think they lost oil through the valve guides but I don't know if the 5.3 has that same problem.

[MS3DALE]

Heres a bulletin from GM on oil consumption..........

 

 

Document ID# 1953897

 

 

Subject: Information on Engine Oil Consumption Guidelines #01-06-01-011D - (04/03/2007)

 

 

Models: 1998-2007 GM Passenger Cars and Gasoline Powered Light Duty Trucks Under 8500 LB GVW (Including Saturn)

 

2003-2007 HUMMER H2

 

2006-2007 HUMMER H3

 

2005-2007 Saab 9-7X

 

 

This bulletin is being revised to include information on manual transmission vehicles and additional warranty statements. Please discard Corporate Bulletin Number 01-06-01-011C (Section 06 -- Engine/Propulsion System).

 

All engines require oil to lubricate and protect the load bearing and internal moving parts from wear including cylinder walls, pistons and piston rings. When a piston moves down its cylinder, a thin film of oil is left on the cylinder wall. During the power stroke, part of this oil layer is consumed in the combustion process. As a result, varying rates of oil consumption are accepted as normal in all engines.

 

Oil Consumption

The accepted rate of oil consumption for engines used in the vehicles referenced is 0.946 liter (1 qt) in 3200 km (2000 mi).

 

Important: Certain 2006 and 2007 models have a new GM Extended Warranty. Please refer to the appropriate Owner's Manual for warranty information.

 

This rate only applies to personal use vehicles, under warranty, that are driven in a non-aggressive manner and maintained in accordance with the appropriate maintenance schedule, with less than 58,000 km (36,000 mi), or 80,450 km (50,000 mi) for Cadillac, driven at legal speeds in an unloaded (for trucks) condition.

 

Important: This rate does not apply to vehicles that are driven in an aggressive manner, at high RPM, high speeds, or in a loaded condition (for trucks). Oil consumption for vehicles driven under these conditions will be more.

 

Many factors can affect a customer's concern with oil consumption. Driving habits and vehicle maintenance vary from owner to owner. Thoroughly evaluate each case before deciding whether the vehicle in question has abnormal engine oil consumption.

 

Gasket and External Leaks

Inspect the oil pan and engine covers for leakage due to over-tightened, damaged, or out of place gaskets. Inspect oil lines and fittings for signs of leakage.

 

Improper Reading of the Oil Level Indicator (Dipstick)

Verify that the dipstick tube is fully seated in the block. When checking the oil level, make sure the dipstick is wiped clean before taking an oil level reading and fully depress the dipstick until the shoulder bottoms out on the dipstick tube. The dipstick should be the proper part number for the engine/vehicle that is being checked.

 

Notice: Operating your vehicle with an oil level that is below the minimum level indicated on the engine oil dipstick can result in severe engine damage. Repairs resulting from operating an engine with insufficient oil are not covered under the terms of the New Vehicle Warranty.

 

Important: Refer to Owner Manual in SI for checking and adding engine oil.

 

Not Waiting Long Enough After Running Engine to Check Oil Level

Some engines require more time than others for the oil to drain back into the crankcase. To assure a sufficient amount of oil has drained back to the crankcase, and an accurate reading can be obtained, the vehicle should be allowed to sit for at least 15 minutes, after the engine has been shut off, before taking an oil level reading. In order to ensure accurate results, the temperature of the oil should be close to the same temperature as the last time the oil level was checked.

 

Important: This does not apply to 2006 and 2007 Corvette ZO6 equipped with the 7.0L LS7 engine (dry sump). Follow the instructions in the Owner's Manual for checking the oil in this application.

 

Improper Oil Fill After an Oil Change

Following an oil change, verify that the proper amount and type of oil was put in the engine and that the oil level on the dipstick is not above the full mark or below the add marks. Refer to the Owner's Manual or Service Manual for information on recommended oil quantity, viscosity, and quality.

 

Aggressive Driving, High Speed or High RPM Driving

Aggressive driving and/or continuous driving at high speeds/high RPMs will increase oil consumption. Because this may not always be an everyday occurrence, it is hard to determine exactly how much the oil economy will be affected.

 

A higher rate of oil consumption is normal for vehicles equipped with manual transmissions that are driven aggressively. By "aggressive," we mean operation at high RPM (3,000 RPM to redline), with frequent use of engine braking (using the engine to slow the vehicle). Vehicles that are driven aggressively may consume engine oil at a rate of up to 0.946 L (1 quart) every 805 km (500 mi). This is normal for a vehicle that is driven aggressively. No repair is necessary. This characteristic does, however, require the owner to check the engine oil level at sufficiently frequent intervals, especially when driving aggressively, to assure the oil level remains within the recommended operating range. As the Owner’s Manual recommends, you should check the oil level every time you get fuel.

 

Towing or Heavy Usage

Towing a trailer will increase oil consumption and may cause oil consumption to fall below the normal accepted rate referenced in this bulletin for an unloaded vehicle in a personal use application. Large frontal area trailers will further increase the work required from the engine, especially at highway speeds, and thus increases the rate of oil consumption.

 

Crankcase Ventilation System

Verify that the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) system is operating properly. Blockages, restrictions, or damage to the PCV system can result in increased oil use.

 

Oil Dilution (Fuel and Water)

On vehicles that are usually driven short distances, less than 8 km (5 mi), especially in colder weather, unburned fuel and condensation generated from cold engine operation may not get hot enough to evaporate out of the oil. When this occurs, the dipstick may indicate that the oil level is over-full. Subsequent driving on a trip of sufficient length to enable normal engine operating temperature for 30 minutes or more, in order to vaporize excess moisture and fuel, may give the customer the impression of excessive oil consumption.

 

Engine Temperature

If an engine is run at overheated temperatures (see Owner's Manual or Service Manual) for more than brief periods, oil will oxidize at a faster than normal rate. In addition, gaskets may distort, piston rings may stick, and excessive wear may result. Verify that all cooling system components are in proper working order.

 

Engine Wear

Piston scuffing, excessive piston-to-wall clearance, tapered or out of round cylinders, worn, damaged or improperly installed valve guides, seals and piston rings will all cause an increase in oil consumption.

 

Measurement of Oil Consumption

Engines require a period of time to BREAK IN so that moving parts are properly seated. Therefore, oil economy should not be tested until the vehicle has accumulated at least 6400 km (4000 mi). An exception would be allowed only if an engine is reported to be using more than 0.946 liter (1 qt) in 1600 km (1000 mi).

 

Verify that the engine has no external leaks. Repair as necessary.

Verify that the engine is at normal operating temperature (see Owner's Manual or Service Manual).

Park the vehicle on a level surface.

Wait at least 15 minutes, after the engine is shut off, before checking the oil level to make sure that the oil has had time to drain back into the crankcase.

Verify that the oil level is at, but not above, the full mark on the dipstick, and that the proper viscosity and quality oil are being used as recommended in the Owner's Manual.

Record the vehicle mileage, date, and exact oil level on the form included in this bulletin.

Ask the customer to verify the oil level, each time the vehicle is fueled, following steps 1-6 and return the vehicle to the dealership if the oil level is found at or below the add mark, 0.946 liter (1 qt) low. If the oil level remains above the add mark, the customer should continue to operate the vehicle and verify the engine oil level until 3200 km (2000 mi) has accumulated before returning to the dealership for a final evaluation.

If the final evaluation shows that the engine uses more than 0.946 liter (1 qt) in 3200 km (2000 mi), follow the published symptom diagnostics as described in the appropriate Service Manual. If the oil consumption test shows that the engine uses less than 0.946 liter (1 qt) in 3200 km (2000 mi), explain to the customer that their engine meets the guidelines for oil consumption.

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

 

Document ID# 1953897

[C & A s Dad]

Jon, I did not read all of Rich's bulletin so if addresses this, I apologize.

 

I am not sure what year the change was made in the PCV valve but some models had a regular PCV Valve and you may need a fixed orfice style. Pull the PCV (rear left valve cover right at the firewall), if it rattles when you shake it, go to your local GM dealer and get a fixed orfice PCV valve. It will look the same on the outside but it is really hollow with a small hole in it.

 

Rich can provide more detailed info but I know some people reported this change cured their oil consumption.

[MS3DALE]

Heres what Trey was talking about,Since yours is an '04 it should already have the "fixed-orifice" PCV valve,but you never know....

 

 

Document ID# 901494

 

 

Subject: Higher Than Expected Engine Oil Consumption (Replace PCV Valve) #01-06-01-029B - (07/19/2002)

 

 

 

Models: 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche

 

1999-2002 Chevrolet Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe Models

 

2002 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade EXT

 

1999-2002 GMC Denali, Sierra, Suburban, Yukon Models

 

with 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L Engine (VINs V, T, N, U -- RPOs LR4, LM7, LQ9, LQ4)

 

 

Condition

Some customers may comment on higher than expected engine oil consumption. They may further comment on consumption in the range of 3,200 km (2,000 mi) or less per quart (0.946 liter) of oil under normal driving conditions.

 

Cause

The condition may be due to the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve flow rate under certain engine operating conditions.

 

Correction

Verify that the oil consumption is not the result of an oil leak or other engine concern.

The dealer should perform an oil consumption test. The vehicle should have accumulated over 6,450 km (4,000 mi) before establishing the oil consumption rate. Reference Corporate Bulletin Number 01-06-01-011, Information on Engine Oil Consumption Guideline, for details.

Remove the PCV valve and inspect the hose going to the intake manifold for signs of excessive oil being present.

If excessive oil is present in the PCV hose,replace the PCV valve (Type 948C) with a new-style fixed orifice PCV valve, GM P/N 12572717.

 

Important: The new style fixed orifice PCV valve contains no moving parts, and does not rattle when shaken.

 

If the vehicle has an orifice style PCV valve, investigate other causes for high oil consumption.

 

Parts Information,

Part Number: 12572717

Description: Valve,PCV

Qty: 1

 

 

Parts are currently available from GMSPO.

 

Warranty Information

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:

 

Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

 

J6000

Valve, PCV - Replace

Use published labor operation time

 

 

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

[MS3DALE]

Heres another interesting bulletin concerning oil......

 

Document ID# 1614660

 

 

Subject: 2002-2005 4.8/5.3/6.0 Chevrolet GMC Engine Oil Dipstick Unseated or Oil Leak - Engine RPO Codes: L33,LQ9,LM7,LQ4,LR4,L59 PCV cold freeze start up fill ice vent intake air inlet ambient temperature #PIP3343 - (02/24/2005)

 

Models:

02-05 Chevrolet Silverado and 02-05 GMC Sierra.

 

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in the PI.

 

Condition/Concern:

A vehicle may be brought to the dealer with a customer concern of an oil leak or the dipstick unseating from the dipstick tube.

 

Recommendation/Instructions:

If the dipstick is unseated from the dipstick tube, inspect the engine PCV system for ice or freezing up.

 

If the PCV system is found to be frozen or restricted with ice, replace the Oil Fill Cap with a vented oil fill cap part number 12573342.

 

Please follow this diagnosis process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.

 

 

GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.

WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION

 

 

© Copyright General Motors Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

[C & A s Dad]

I was not sure what year they began using the fixed design. My 02 has one in it but I think it was put in later. I was going to replace it when I first got the truck (39K miles) and found the fixed design. The one I had brought home was a reg PCV valve. I did a little research here and decided to leave the fixed orfice design in there.

 

Someone may have replaced his not knowing.

 

Hope he will let us know.

 

Anyway Rich, you have provided him with the part # in case he needs it.

[jonoman69]

hi, thanks for the info guys. I guess ive just never heard of a vehicle consumming that much oil in such a short period of time. I thought it might of been related to why my cat has to be replaced already. Thanks again.