In September of 2017, the vehicle’s engine stalled and was later diagnosed with a complete engine failure. The problem was allegedly traced back to excessive oil consumption, with the plaintiff claiming affected engines consume as much as 0.946 litres of engine oil per 1,600 kilometres of driving.
ricksfreeautorepairadvice.com
- The GM vehicles allegedly consume abnormal amounts of oil that exceeds industry standards, allegedly as high as 0.946 litres of engine oil per 1,600 kilometres of driving. The primary cause of the alleged oil consumption is the piston rings which do not maintain sufficient tension to keep oil in the crankcase.
Why do GM vehicles burn oil?
The piston rings can not keep the engine’s oil in the crankcase. In addition, “ a flawed PCV system that vacuums atomized oil from the valvetrain into the intake system, where it is ultimately burned in the combustion chambers,” contributing to excess oil consumption in affected GM vehicles, according to the lawsuit.
Did Chevy fix the oil consumption problem?
Settlement. A GM oil consumption settlement has been approved by a federal judge for customers of 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines.
Why is my engine consuming so much oil?
The most usual cause of engine oil consumption is worn valve guides, usually the exhaust guides or worn piston rings. Run the engine for several minutes at idle. If a heavy billow of bluish smoke is exhausted then disappears and the exhaust remains relatively clean, the most likely cause is excessive valve guide wear.
Do GM cars burn oil?
General Motors “The 2.4-liter engine is used in the 2010-2017 model year Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain. The special coverage warranty is offered on certain 2010-2013 models that had increased oil consumption.
When did GM FIX 5.3 oil consumption?
As we pointed out before, GM redesigned its 5.3-liter V8 engine after the 2014 model year, using different piston rings and adding a shield to deflect oil away from the piston skirts. The newer versions of the engine also feature a true oil level sensor and new valve covers.
Do 5.3 engines burn oil?
One common problem seen in the 5.3-liter engine is a failure of the valve cover to seal, which can cause heavy oil burn. Depending on the wear-and-tear on your vehicles, you may be able to get away with having the rings cleaned and getting a replacement valve cover that will seal again.
Why does my 2012 Chevy Equinox burn so much oil?
The 2010 to 2013 model year Chevy Equinox compact crossover is prone to experiencing engine issues that may cause it to burn oil, according to the automotive experts over at Consumer Reports. The oil burn issue can also apparently foul the spark plugs and lead to carbon buildup on the pistons and cylinder walls.
What year Equinox have engine problems?
Chevrolet had fixed a lot of problems from the first years of the Equinox by 2008 and 2009 leading to them having the lowest number of complaints. In the second generation for the Equinox, the years that you will want to look at are the 2013 through 2017 with the 3.6L engine.
Is the 2.4 L Ecotec engine reliable?
2.4L Ecotec Reliability It’s certainly not the most reliable engine out there, but it’s also far from the worst. 2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox models seem to be the most susceptible to running into timing chain and high oil consumption problems. Otherwise, later models are prone to carbon build-up.
How can I stop excessive oil consumption?
The best and most obvious way is to decrease oil consumption by controlling combustion efficiency, wear and oil deposits through good lubrication and filtration practices.
How do you fix high oil consumption?
There are several ways to potentially reduce your engine oil consumption. If the cause of the high engine oil consumption is a leak around the piston rings, you may be able to have your piston rings replaced in order to prevent future leaks. Replacing the valve seals may also help to fix oil leaks.
Can I drive my car with too much oil in it?
If you have put too much oil in your car, you should drain the excess oil. If you’re not confident doing this, you will need to get your vehicle towed to a mechanic – driving it could damage the engine, requiring expensive repairs.
Why does 2011 Silverado burn oil?
GM engines from the 2007-2011 model years, that run with the Active Fuel Management System are likely to experience the oil consumption problem. To keep the pistons cool, a pressure relief valve sprays oil in the cylinder, but it can burn off if the piston’s warm.
Why does my 5.3 use oil?
Oil consumption, which most consumers define as an engine that uses more than one quart of oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Engine problems due to fouled or damaged valves, which can be caused by the excessive oil consumption issue.
GM Oil Consumption Class Action Lawsuit Alleges Engine Defect in Popular Vehicles
(albund/DepositPhotos.com) The latest breaking news is as follows: Two individuals have launched a class action lawsuit against General Motors (GM), alleging that a faulty engine causes excessive oil consumption in seven popular models, according to the lawsuit. According to lead plaintiffs Ron Shea and Robert Kelly, the faulty Generation IV 5.3 Liter V8 Vortec 5300 LC9 engine is installed in a number of General Motors cars from 2011 through 2014, including the following:
- Chevrolet Avalanche
- Chevrolet Silverado
- Chevrolet Suburban
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- GMC Sierra
- GMC Yukon
- GMC Yukon XL
The new engine was introduced by General Motors in 2007 and fitted in a number of popular vehicles, however the engine has reportedly been tainted by faults. It is alleged in a class action complaint that “Unfortunately, the Generation IV Vortec 5300 Engine uses an unusually and unreasonably large quantity of oil that substantially surpasses industry norms for reasonable oil consumption.” As a result of the excessive oil consumption, low oil levels, insufficient lubricity levels, and resulting internal engine component damage are experienced.
Kelly has a 2012 Chevrolet Suburban, and he claims he has had to pay for repairs as a result of low oil levels caused by a flaw in the vehicle.
A class action lawsuit claims that “the Oil Consumption Defect can damage critical engine components and cause drivability problems, such as lack of power from misfire, spark plug fouling, excessive engine noise, abnormal vibration or shaking, piston cracking and head cracking,” and that “the Oil Consumption Defect can ultimately cause engine seizure.” They also claim that the engine problem, as well as the fact that they and other GM owners are exposed to significant safety hazards.
- A fault in the piston rings of the malfunctioning engine is said to be the source of the problem.
- This failure is exacerbated by other issues, notably with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which results in oil spreading throughout the vehicle.
- Also included is “a faulty PCV system that vacuums atomized oil from the valvetrain into the intake system, where it is eventually consumed in the combustion chambers,” which the complaint claims results in “excess oil consumption” in the affected cars.
- This problem is exacerbated by the fact that the oil change light, which is designed to alert operators when the fluid level is low, allegedly does not illuminate until the oil level is so low that it might cause harm to the vehicle.
- A national class action lawsuit has been filed on behalf of customers who purchased or leased any of General Motors’ vehicles equipped with the allegedly faulty Generation IV 5.3 Liter V8 Vortec 5300 LC9 engines, as well as a subclass in Indiana.
- Please share your thoughts and experiences in the comments box below!
- Daniel “Dee” Miles, III, H.
Mitch Williams, and Tyner D.
Andrus of Andrus Anderson LLP are representing the lead plaintiffs and proposed Class Members.
v.
3:21-cv-00086, is a class action lawsuit filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana against General Motors for its oil consumption engine defect.
top-class-actions.com is a legal news website that covers class action lawsuits, class action settlements, drug harm cases, and product liability litigation, among other things.
It is your responsibility to contact the settlement administrator or your attorney if you have any updates on the status of your claim or claim form, or if you have any queries about when payments will be made out.
Is Your 5.3L V8 Engine Eating Up Too Much Oil? We Have Two Solutions For You.
What version of the 5.3L V8 with variable displacement technology, known as Active Fuel Management (AFM), is in your GM automobile? If this is the case, it is possible that your engine is consuming oil at a quicker pace than intended. Many customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the oil consumption rates of GM engines equipped with AFM. The purpose of this essay is to provide an overview of what is currently taking place, why it is taking place, and what you may do to correct it.
How the AFM System Works
The Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, sometimes known as “cylinder deactivation,” is a type of engine management system. This technique allows the engine to deactivate half of the engine’s cylinders when the engine is running at lower RPMs, hence lowering fuel consumption. AFM is often activated under light-load circumstances, and it has been demonstrated to enhance fuel efficiency by as much as 7.5 percent in some instances. However, while the AFM system has been proved in testing to enhance fuel efficiency, it has several long-term concerns that have been a source of concern for many motorists:
- It is sometimes referred to as “cylinder deactivation” when it is used in conjunction with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system. Engines equipped with this technology are able to turn down half of their cylinders when operating at lower RPMs, hence saving fuel consumption. AFM is often activated under light-load circumstances, and it has been demonstrated to enhance fuel efficiency by as much as 7.5 percent in some cases. AFM systems have proved to enhance fuel efficiency in testing, but they have also been associated with a number of long-term concerns that have been a source of concern for customers:
Photo of a 5.3L V8 engine in a 2006 Chevrolet Impala Ss courtesy of Wikimedia Commons. To be honest, not every 5.3L V8 from General Motors has issues with AFM. A large number of consumers have reported having a trouble-free ownership experience. Despite this, there are AFM issues.
How The AFM System Can Cause Excessive Oil Consumption
The AFM excessive oil consumption problem mainly manifests itself in vehicles that travel long distances on highways. Because these kind of journeys do not place a significant amount of strain on the engine, the AFM system disables the pistons. The AFM system sprays oil over the pistons via a specific oil pressure relief valve to keep them cool (since they are still moving up and down in the cylinder, they require cooling and lubrication). This helps to keep the pistons cool and lubricated. Although it may not seem like a big deal, if the pistons are nice and warm from use (for example, after spending a few minutes getting up to full operating temperature during some aggressive city driving), the oil sprayed onto them may “cook” and cause build-up on the pistons and (more importantly) on the rings.
Additionally, excessive ring and cylinder wear might result in engine damage after a certain point.
A barrier has been installed to prevent oil from being forced out of the pistons and sludging up the pistons.
A DIY AFM Fix
An increasing number of General Motors car owners are turning to the aftermarket for assistance in an attempt to prevent the AFM system from causing long-term engine damage.
AFM deactivation is now available as a feature on a large number of General Motors engine “tuners” (electronic devices that adjust the programming of the engine control module). Basically:
- You purchase an after-market engine tuner from a firm such as Range Technology or DiabloSport, for example. Connect the tuner to the OBDII diagnostic port on your GM car and follow the on-screen directions to upgrade the engine control module’s program
- The new program will ensure that AFM never engages in any activity again. The cylinder deactivation mechanism is essentially turned off as a result of this.
Despite the fact that this method is not officially supported by General Motors, a quick search on Google will turn up several first-hand testimonials from GM 5.3L V8 owners who have utilized these products and reported that they were happy. NOTE: Although theoretically speaking, aftermarket tuners do not void your vehicle’s warranty, they do so in practice. However, if the tuner is not adjusted appropriately, it might cause significant damage. It is not covered under warranty if an aftermarket item causes damage to the vehicle.
Cylinder Deactivation Problems Plague Other Automakers Too
GM isn’t the only business that provides cylinder deactivation technology; Honda and Ram all have vehicles that are equipped with cylinder deactivation technologies. Similarly, Ram’s MDS system is a popular source of complaints about the way it engages, while Honda’s MDS system has been linked to increased oil use, broken spark plugs, and decreased fuel economy. We mention this not to defend General Motors, but to point out that, for a time, a large number of automakers considered cylinder deactivation devices to be a positive feature.
Having this difficulty is something that many people have experienced.
If so, how well did it perform?
Car Burning Oil: How Much Consumption Is ‘Normal’?
Not only does General Motors provide cylinder deactivation technology, but so do Honda and Ram, who also manufacture vehicles equipped with the technology. Similarly, Ram’s MDS system is a frequent source of complaints about the way it engages, while Honda’s MDS system has been linked to increased oil use, broken spark plugs, and decreased fuel economy. While we don’t mean to criticize General Motors, we want to point out that cylinder deactivation technologies were formerly regarded favorably by a large number of automakers.
If so, have you ever had to deal with this issue?
Is this something you’ve tried before?
“Normal” Oil Burning in One Vehicle May Be Excessive in Another
While oil burning is a rather frequent problem, manufacturers do not give universal guidelines on how to deal with it, so what may be typical for one engine may be excessive for another, depending on the manufacturer. For example, BMW informs owners that it is usual for certain of its engines to consume a quart of oil in less than a thousand miles of driving. According to General Motors in a tip document for fleet vehicle owners, regular usage “may be in the region of one quart within 2,000 miles on a well operated and maintained vehicle,” according to the company.
The majority of engines with less than 50,000 miles should not consume much more than a quart of oil between oil changes, as a rule of thumb (unless the manufacturer says differently).
Increased oil consumption may be predicted if an engine has traveled more than perhaps 75,000 miles, and probably more than 100,000 miles.
Because these oils are thinner, they are more likely to pass through gaskets, seals, and rings that have worn even a little amount over time, resulting in increased oil consumption over time.
What to Do When You Have a Car Burning Oil
A blue tinge to the smoke coming from your exhaust indicates that your automobile is burning oil rather than gasoline, which is a solid indicator that you are burning oil rather than gasoline. The presence of oil seeping into the combustion chamber indicates a significant problem that must be handled as soon as possible by a qualified mechanic. Whatever the reason for the lack of smoke coming from your exhaust, if your automobile is using an excessive amount of oil between oil changes, something is not quite right.
Given the lack of consistency in oil consumption, the best course of action is to check your oil level on a frequent basis and have a professional check for leaks if your engine is burning through oil.
Even minor oil leaks must be checked and repaired as soon as possible in order to avoid major damage to your car’s engine in the future.
Lawsuits Due to Cars Excessively Burning Oil
Consumers have their own opinions about how much is typical, and numerous manufacturers, including Audi, BMW, Honda, Subaru, and Toyota, have been sued in recent years for alleged high oil consumption, including Audi, BMW, Honda, Subaru, and Toyota. Individual consumers must normally file a formal complaint with a dealer or auto business in order to receive any repairs, despite the fact that widespread complaints from owners have prompted certain manufacturers to extend warranties or replace engine parts (and even the engine itself in some circumstances).
- Getting Your Oil Changed: What You Should Know
- What is the best way to tell when it’s time to change my oil
- Is it worth it to spend the extra money on oil for high-mileage engines
- Is it really necessary to change your oil every 3,000 miles on your car? How Much Oil Consumption Is “Normal” in the United States
- Is Synthetic Oil Necessary for My Car?
The engine warranty for Honda’s 2008-11 Accords and 2010-11 CR-Vs with four-cylinder engines has been extended to eight years/125,000 miles as a result of high oil consumption of up to one quart every thousand miles reported by owners. Honda said it will monitor fuel use and conduct extra testing for owners who reported that their vehicles used a quart of fuel per 3,000 miles. The Editorial section at Cars.com is your go-to source for automotive news and reviews. Editors and reviewers at Cars.com are prohibited from accepting gifts or free vacations from automobile manufacturers, in accordance with the company’s long-standing ethical code.
Oil Consumption Issues in GM Vehicles
The engine warranty for Honda’s 2008-11 Accords and 2010-11 CR-Vs with four-cylinder engines has been extended to eight years/125,000 miles as a result of high oil consumption of up to one quart every thousand miles reported by owners. Honda said it will monitor usage and conduct extra testing for owners who reported their vehicles used a quart of fuel per 3,000 miles. You can find the latest automotive news and reviews from Cars.com’s Editorial team. Editors and reviewers at Cars.com are prohibited from accepting gifts or free vacations from automobile manufacturers, in accordance with the company’s long-standing ethical code.
Unlike the advertising, sales, and sponsored content divisions at Cars.com, the Editorial department is completely independent of them.
- The Chevrolet Avalanche is a mid-size pickup truck. GMC Sierra 1500
- Chevrolet Silverado
- GM’s Suburban vehicle
- Tahoe, a Chevrolet vehicle. Sierra 1500
- GMC Sierra
- Yukon from GMC
- GMC Yukon XL
- GMC Yukon XL
An owner of a Chevrolet Suburban recently characterized his difficulties as follows: “Chevy Suburbans are just too pricey to have these types of problems.” When I took the Suburban to the dealer, they informed me that the pistons and rings would need to be changed, which would cost me $4,000. They confessed that oil had been burning in the combustion chamber and that a buildup of carbon had taken place in the chamber. For our large family, this car is a fantastic match. However, given that General Motors gave me the runaround and then only paid for half of the repair, I will be selling the car after it has been repaired and will never purchase another Suburban again.” In 2017, an appeals court determined that there is sufficient evidence to substantiate the charges surrounding the oil consumption fault, notwithstanding an early dismissal of the class action case in 2017.
- The deficiency, according to the court, is unquestionably a safety hazard.
- Start mileage is 49591, today’s mileage is 53598, and the oil change is 49591.
- When I received a low oil alert in the middle of November, the dealer immediately replenished 1 quart.
- I had to remind myself that it would use 3.5 quarts over the course of 4007 kilometers.
- The oil in my 2014 Chevrolet Silverado LT was low at 79k miles, so I added two quarts of oil and waited until the next oil change to report the problem to the dealer adviser.
- When the engine light came on, I immediately checked the deep stick and saw that the fuel level was dangerously low, virtually empty,” I recall.
- If your car is using excessive amounts of oil or if it has suffered engine damage as a consequence, the attorneys at CCA can assist you.
- The best aspect is that our legal expenses are covered by the automakers, not our clients.
Settlement Reached in Class Action Over Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain Oil Consumption. Here Are the Details.
In order to put a stop to planned class action lawsuits filed for high engine oil consumption in certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs, a deal has been struck. It is estimated that the deal between consumers and General Motors, which was submitted for preliminary approval on April 26, is worth $40 million to $45 million. It applies to 2010-2013 Chevy Equinox and GMC Terrain vehicles equipped with 2.4-liter Ecotec engines — referred to as “class vehicles” in this article.
Allegations of malfeasance by General Motors are categorically denied. The proposed settlement for the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain would most likely have the following consequences for owners and lessees of these vehicles, while we impatiently await the court’s approval.
Who’s covered by the settlement?
First and foremost, the settlement applies to anyone who purchased or leased a 2010 Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain vehicle that was equipped with a 2.4-liter Ecotec engine and manufactured prior to the “production change” (i.e., the date when new vehicles were considered 2014 models) on or before April 26, 2019, and who was not otherwise exempt from the settlement. Those who experienced engine failure or who signed a “release of claims” in favor of General Motors in connection with oil consumption issues will be excluded from the compensation.
What are the specifics of the proposed settlement?
As a result of the settlement, General Motors has agreed to establish a “Special Coverage Adjustments” (SCAs) program, under which it will pay for all or part of the cost of specified covered repairs to the affected vehicles, including Equinox and Terrain models that are past their original manufacturer’s warranty dates. This concession does not apply to cars owned or leased by people who have already been compensated by General Motors through a goodwill adjustment or a third-party service contract provider, among other methods.
These three SCAs involve free diagnostic and piston assembly replacement for the affected vehicles performed by authorized General Motors dealers who have determined that the vehicles are currently using excessive oil as a result of their diagnosis (meaning they use more than one quart of oil per 2,000 miles.) The qualifications for each of the three existing SCAs indicated above, as well as for a new SCA founded by the settlement, are listed below, in alphabetical order.
SCA 14159 is a serial number.
- This applies to the following model years: 2010
- After the first sale or lease, the following benefits are provided: Free piston assembly replacement for a period of 10 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first
- This applies to the following model years: 2011
- After the first sale or lease, the following benefits are provided: Free piston assembly replacement for seven years and six months or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first
- This applies to model years 2012 and later. After the first sale or lease, the following benefits are provided: Free piston assembly replacement for seven years and six months or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first
- This applies to the following model years: 2013
- General Motors shall notify all U.S. dealers and class members who bought or leased 2013 model year class cars manufactured prior to the manufacturing change that they qualify for reimbursements under SCAs 15285 and 16118 within the first 30 days of the settlement’s implementation
- Provides that:
Some of our readers have expressed concern about the time and distance restrictions imposed by the SCA programs outlined above, and we have heard from them. We regret that we are unable to give much detail at this time due to the fact that the settlement has not yet been authorized, rejected, or otherwise amended from its first filing. Having said that, we think that once the settlement letters are given out, all of the remaining uncertainties regarding the specifics of who is covered by the provisional settlement will be answered.
Cash Reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket Expenses
As an added bonus, in addition to providing free diagnostics and repairs for class vehicles, General Motors has agreed to fully reimburse in cash, any class members who previously paid out of pocket to replace the piston assembly in their Equinox or Terrain and who were not previously reimbursed by GM. Members of the class required to have paid out of pocket for piston assembly repairs within the periods and mileage restrictions mentioned above in order to be eligible for reimbursement from General Motors.
All claims for reimbursement are subject to verification by IHS Markit/R.L.
Analytic Consulting LLC, a prominent class and collective action settlement administration business, has been appointed as the settlement administrator by the parties, albeit this is still subject to court approval.
I own/lease one of these cars. How will I be contacted about the settlement?
According to the motion, General Motors will supply the settlement administrator with a list of the VINs (vehicle identifying numbers) for each impacted car that has been identified. Following compiling every VIN, IHS Markit/R.L. PolkCo. will create a mailing list utilizing state motor vehicle registration data and U.S. Postal Change of Address data (so don’t be concerned if you have moved since purchasing or leasing your vehicle). The document provided to the court makes no predictions about when the class notifications will begin to be issued out to members of the public.
Is my vehicle information and personal data confidential?
Yes. According to the settlement document: “All information contained in the Class List shall be treated as confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone, except to Class Counsel, except as required by applicable tax authorities, pursuant to the express written consent of an authorized representative of GM, or by order of the District Court.” Unless otherwise specified, the Class List will be utilized only for the purposes of administering this Settlement.
It is expected that this list would include the first and last names, as well as physical postal addresses, of Settlement Class Members.”
Is there a settlement website or phone number?
Not at this time. According to the motion, Analytics Consulting will create a toll-free hotline for class members to contact in order to obtain information about the settlement and/or claims procedure, as well as to request a mailed copy of the class notification, before the notices are sent out. Analytics Consulting will also be in charge of handling inquiries for the attorneys who negotiated the settlement.
How do I submit a claim?
The most recent update was made on August 1, 2019. It has been brought to our attention by readers that notifications are being sent out to people who may be affected by the settlement. Those who get these communications are being contacted to let them know that they may be a part of the class action lawsuit, as well as to give them with basic information about the litigation, the settlement, and their rights. Keep an eye out for any letters you might receive. According to court filings, after the settlement agreement has been approved in its entirety, claim forms for settlement payments will be distributed to class members.
I already got rid of my Chevy Equinox/GMC Terrain. What are my options?
It’s possible that you’re not entirely out of luck here. If you’ve preserved your receipts from when you bought or leased an Equinox or Terrain, you may still be eligible to file a claim for out-of-pocket expenditures. This is a practice that ClassAction.org highly encourages you to adhere to.
When will the settlement be given final approval?
We’re not sure yet, but we’ll keep you informed as soon as we know more. Before proceeding to the final approval step, the proposed settlement will need to receive preliminary permission from the judge.
You didn’t answer my question here.
In the comments section below, please let us know if you have a question concerning the settlement that you don’t see answered on this page.
It is possible to read the entire text of the motion for preliminary approval of the settlement by clicking here.
GMC Vortec Engine Design Flaw Causes Excessive Oil Consumption
- The Missouri-based class-action lawsuit is the latest in a long line of lawsuits alleging that the 5.3L Vortec engine churns through oil as a result of faults in the low-tension piston rings, which are alleged to be the source of the oil churning. A contributing factor is General Motors’ questionably built oil life monitoring system, which fails to alert drivers when oil levels are dangerously low. In truth, the system does not check oil levels at all
- Instead, it just monitors the quality of the oil. Therefore, even if the engine may be dry and on the point of collapsing, you may rest certain that the remaining quart of oil is still in excellent condition. Continue reading the article “Missouri Vortec Oil Consumption Lawsuit is the Latest in a Series Against General Motors”
- Continue reading
Plaintiffs in the case regarding excessive oil consumption in GM’s 5.3L Vortec 5300 engines have switched gears.
- However, the plaintiffs were granted an opportunity to amend their charges after the first case was dismissed by a court last year. Because of this, they’ve narrowed the scope of their investigation to include a possibly malfunctioning oil pressure warning system that fails to correctly monitor oil levels and can result in early engine failure. … Continue reading “Vortec Engine Excessive Oil Lawsuit Takes Aim at Monitoring System” for more information.
The judge looking into last year’s Vortec excessive oil consumption lawsuit does not seem to buying claims that the engine is defective.
- The lawsuit has been thrown out of court. When it comes to owner-reported complaints, the judge ruled that while the complainants express concerns about excessive oil usage, they do not specify what is causing the high oil consumption. As for the bulletin that was issued to dealerships, it makes no mention of the oil rings, and the fact that the bulletin was sent does not imply that GM thought the Vortec engines to be problematic. So. According to the judge, the plaintiffs have failed to specify what is creating the difficulty in their lawsuit. However, in the same breath, the court states that there is no mention of the plaintiff’s accusations of faulty oil rings in the TSBs that were provided to dealerships by General Motors (GM). I’m getting the impression that I’m taking weird medications. … Continue reading the article “Vortec Engine Excessive Oil Lawsuit Is Dismissed by a Judge.”
A lawsuit has been filed on behalf of certain 2010-2013 GM owners with 5.3L V8 Vortec 5300 engines.
- Plaintiffs claim that modifications to the engine design have allowed oil to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in excessive oil consumption and premature engine failure. It claims that the oil consumption problems associated with the 5.3L engines are caused by faulty piston rings, PVC systems, and “active fuel management” (AFM) systems, which cause the spark plugs to wear out prematurely and the engines to exhibit a wide range of abnormalities when driven. It is possible that the problem is caused by low-tension oil rings and a new PVC system, both of which are enabling an excessive amount of oil to reach the combustion chambers and burn off too quickly. … Continue reading the post “Excessive Oil Consumption in the 5.3-L V8 Vortec 5300 Engine?” Continue reading
General Motors loses bid to decertify class action over engine defect
In a lawsuit filed against General Motors LLC over an engine defect that causes full-sized SUVs and trucks to suddenly stop running due to excessive oil consumption, according to Law360, the company failed to persuade a California federal judge to decertify a class of GM vehicle owners and lessees who are suing the company. This flaw has the potential to cause the engines to spontaneously catch fire. In its argument before U.S. District Judge Edward M. Chen, General Motors asserted that the class was decertified because the class representative did not fulfill the definition of the class following a narrowing of the class’s scope by the judge last spring.
Certain allegations in the case were initially dismissed by Judge Chen after he determined that some car owners had altered their concerns many times after the first complaint was filed.
Oil migration into the combustion chambers is a result of worn piston rings, according to GM records and eyewitness testimony.
Beasley Allen attorneys Clay Barnett in our Atlanta office andMitch Williams in our Montgomery office represent plaintiffs in class action litigation involving defective automobile products.
GM’s Ecotec Engines
If you own or lease a Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain SUV that consumes excessive amounts of engine oil or exhibits other engine issues, you may be in possession of a faulty vehicle. Class action lawsuits filed against General Motors alleging that its Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs are equipped with defective 2.4-L Ecotec engines that suffer early wear and use engine oil at an unreasonably high rate have been resolved in settlement with the plaintiffs. However, not all of the automobiles that were the subject of the original complaints were included in the class-action settlement agreement.
What’s wrong with General Motors’ Ecotec engine?
There have been three lawsuits brought against General Motors alleging that some Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs are equipped with faulty 2.4-L Ecotec engines, all of which have been dismissed. All of the claims were combined into a single claim on behalf of the owners and lessees of certain Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs. Specifically, the combined claim asserts that the Ecotec engines contain faulty piston rings that cause them to wear down prematurely and to consume excessive amounts of oil, up to one quart every 1,000 miles driven.
Consequently, some owners and lessees drive their vehicles with insufficient oil, resulting in engine damage and premature engine failure. You have the right to withdraw from your class action lawsuit.
What vehicles have the defective Ecotec engine?
According to the first round of complaints filed against General Motors, the Ecotec engines found in the Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs from 2010 to 2017 were flawed. Owners and lessees of Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs from 2010 to 2013 reached an agreement with General Motors. Under the terms of the settlement, General Motors agreed to compensate customers for certain repair expenses and to provide Special Coverage Adjustments (SCAs), which are time and mileage extensions to original warranty coverage on the cars.
As a result, owners and lessees of Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain SUVs from 2014 to 2017 may file individual lemon law claims against the manufacturer.
What are my California Lemon Law rights?
It is possible to file a California lemon law claim if you live in the state, purchased or leased your car from a registered California dealership that offered a manufacturer-backed guarantee, and your vehicle exhibited reoccurring difficulties. A vehicle is considered defective under the California Lemon Law if it has a defect that interferes with the vehicle’s ability to function, its safety, or its value, and if an authorized dealership or repair facility has made a reasonable number of attempts to correct the problem within the warranty period.
Consumers in California who have their automobiles determined to be faulty may be eligible for financial compensation, a vehicle replacement, or a lemon law repurchase from their automobile makers.
You have the right to withdraw from your class action lawsuit.
How can Knight Law Group’s lemon law attorneys help me?
If you are experiencing problems with your 2014–2017 Chevrolet Equinox or GMC Terrain SUV’s Ecotec engine, our California lemon law experts may be able to assist you in obtaining the financial compensation you deserve. No one should have to go through the lemon law procedure on their own. The Knight Law Group has assisted thousands of California customers in the exercise of their lemon law rights since its founding in 1997. We provide free consultations over the phone that might last as short as five minutes if necessary.
Alternatively, you can call us at 877-222-2222for a free consultation if you have any questions concerning the oil consumption defect or your rights under the California lemon law.
Chevy’s 2.4L Ecotec Engine Uses an Excessive Amount of Oil
- . But hold on, there’s more. It is said that all of these issues are concealed by an insufficient warning system, which offers owners a false sense of security while their engine rips itself apart from the inside. Should I continue? … continue reading this article “Is the 2.4L Ecotec engine in the Equinox a faulty design? All indications point to the affirmative “in addition to this, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at [email protected]
It’s no secret that the Equinox’s 2.4-liter EcoTech engine has problems with excessive oil consumption.
- Chevy is being sued, and the plaintiffs are demanding that the company take action. Ultimately, the plaintiffs contend that the EcoTec 2.4-liter piston rings are incapable of maintaining a proper seal within the crankcase. In addition, the engines contribute to oil consumption because of spray jets that spray oil onto the piston skirts and cylinder walls during operation. … continue reading the article “Lawsuit Says Equinox Piston Ring Problems Cause 2.4-Liter Engines to Consume Too Much Oil, Overheat, and Stall”
- Continue reading the article
Equinox owners, put down those quarts of oil. General Motors’ Technical Service Bulletin (TSB 15285C) could be the answer you’ve been looking for regarding excessive oil consumption.
- In prior technical service advisories, Chevrolet and GMC dealers were instructed to install updated engine control module calibration and conduct an oil consumption test on their vehicles. Dealers are being instructed to diagnose the problem and replace the pistons this time. Chevrolet claims that repairs will be provided free of charge (depending on warranty coverage) and that the warranty will be extended to 7.5 years or 120,000 miles, whichever comes first, as a result of the recall. Continue reading the post “Oil Consumption TSB May Be Beneficial to Equinox Owners”
When Is Engine Oil Consumption Considered Excessive? James on Engines #6
The automobile public frequently approaches Bell Performance’s master mechanic James Dunst with queries about lubricating oil and other automotive topics. How do you choose the best kind, how frequently should you replace it, and such questions. They appear to be thinking about oil consumption, namely how much is too much and when it should be a source of concern. James Dunst provides a mechanic’s perspective on the issue of typical vs. abnormal oil usage for your car in this week’s episode. It is a proven truth that the majority of engines will use some oil.
- There are certain high-performance automobiles that consume a quart of oil in less than 1,000 miles and are nevertheless regarded to be acceptable in terms of fuel consumption and emissions.
- These modifications have had an impact on the amount of oil that an engine will use when burning it, but they are still regarded acceptable.
- The point at which the piston rings come into touch with the cylinder walls is the location at which the most friction occurs in an engine.
- The piston ring tension has been decreased by the automakers in order to reduce friction and obtain greater fuel efficiency in the vehicle.
- The major reason for regular oil consumption in most well serviced automobiles is due to frictional losses.
- When it comes to engine oil, lighter weight grades such as 0W-20 are becoming more popular since they minimize friction and provide better lubrication for internal engine components in cold weather.
- When using lesser weight motor oils, oil has been found to leak through oil seals and gaskets, which is normally not an issue when using higher weight motor oils, according to the EPA.
Standard automobiles that consume a quart of oil in less than 1,000 miles should be investigated to determine the source of the problem. High oil usage, such as one quart of oil per 500 miles, can have a detrimental impact on catalytic converters and cause them to malfunction.
Check out other posts by James:
- Engine Oil Consumption – James on Engines1
- Rough Running Engine – James on Engines2
- Diagnosing Common Engine Noises – James on Engines3
- Low Engine Power and Poor Performance – James on Engines4
- Fuel Storage and Aged Fuel Issues – James on Engines5
- Engine Oil Consumption – James on Engines6
- Engine Oil Consumption – James on Engines7
- Engine Oil Consumption – James on Engines8
- Engine Oil Consum
GM Oil Consumption Lawsuit Partly Dismissed
General Motors is believed to offer automobiles equipped with LC9 engines, which consume a large amount of oil. A case against General Motors for oil usage has been partially rejected, but the plaintiff has been granted the ability to alter the majority of the allegations. Plaintiff Tim Nauman filed a class action complaint against General Motors for excessive oil consumption in cars equipped with Generation IV 5.3 Liter V8 Vortec 5300 LC9 engines from 2011 to 2014. According to the plaintiff, the piston rings in his 2011 Chevrolet Silverado waste an excessive quantity of oil as a result of the defects in the rings.
The complainant, on the other hand, claims that the carmaker neglected to tell her about difficulties with oil use.
Motion to Dismiss the GM Oil Consumption Lawsuit
In its request to dismiss, General Motors contends that the plaintiff’s allegations of breach of express guarantee should be rejected since the plaintiff believes that a design fault is responsible for claimed oil consumption concerns. Design faults are not covered by the guarantee; instead, only problems due to materials and workmanship are covered. As a result of this argument, the judge ruled that the warranty did not cover design problems, and GM was successful in convincing him to dismiss the claim.
- The plaintiff, according to the carmaker, did not state that his truck was unmerchantable at the time of sale, as required by law.
- Plaintiff failed to react to General Motors’ arguments, leaving the judge with no alternative but to dismiss the violation of implied warranty claim, according to Judge Benjamin H.
- The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act (MMWA) claim is the next one that General Motors believes should be rejected.
- When the plaintiff failed to respond to General Motors’ argument for the second time, the judge rejected the claim.
- Following that, the case against General Motors for oil usage claims that the company was aware of difficulties based on three factors.
- —Judge Settle’s Opinion The judge decided against the plaintiff, concluding that General Motors’ ultimate modification of the engine did not sufficiently prove knowledge of the problems.
- “The Ninth Circuit determined that accusations of an exceptionally high amount of complaints to the defendant directly sufficed to establish knowledge of the defendant’s activities.
- And those comments are in regard to the Vortec 5300 engines from Generation IV.
- However, if the plaintiff so desires, he may alter and resubmit his claims for breach of implied warranty, breaches of the MMWA, and a claim for injunctive relief under the Washington Consumer Protection Act, among other things.
General Motors LLC. Lawyers Dicello Levitt Gutzler LLC and Beasley Allen Crow Methvin PortisMiles PC are representing the plaintiff in this matter.
Why Is My Car’s Engine Using Too Much Oil?
Dan Ferrell is a writer who specializes in do-it-yourself auto maintenance and repair. In the field of automation and control technology, he holds credentials. High engine oil consumption is not limited to vehicles with a lot of miles on them. The image is courtesy of Dvortygirl on the Wikipedia website. All automobiles use oil, albeit the amount consumed varies based on the engine model, driving behaviors, engine load, and maintenance history of the vehicle. Excessive engine oil consumption, on the other hand, should be handled carefully.
Sometimes the source of the problem is obvious, such as when a gasket is broken.
Before you begin your diagnostic procedure, acquire as much information as you can regarding the problem.
As an illustration:
- The oil warning light on the dashboard is illuminated, is this correct? Is it possible that you have discovered oil spots on the floor? Observe if there is any blue-gray smoke coming from the exhaust. Are you hearing any strange noises coming from the engine?
The parts that follow will assist you in deciding whether or not to:
- Whether or not your engine is utilizing an excessive amount of oil
- How to assess your engine oil consumption
- Which external factors may be causing the problem
- And which internal factors may be causing the problem
Steps to Take if Your Car Is Using Too Much Oil
- Is my engine consuming too much oil? Measuring the rate at which the engine consumes oil What is causing my brand new car to consume so much oil? External Oil Leaks Have Several Sources
- Internal Oil Leaks: Their Causes and Consequences
- You Are Increasing Engine Oil Consumption in Unexpected Ways, According to You
If your exhaust is greasy, it might be a sign of an internal oil leak. Thanks to Greg Chiasson for sharing this photo on Flickr!
1. Is My Engine Consuming Too Much Oil?
The regular running of a vehicle’s engine necessitates the use of a little amount of oil. But how much is too much in this case? So, at what point should you start to worry? The normal rate of oil consumption varies depending on the size, manufacture, and model of the engine. When determining whether or not you should be concerned, keep an eye out for the following indications. If you do any of the following:
- Upon entering the parking lot, you may see a patch or puddle of new oil on the floor
- Every 3000 miles, top up the oil with a quart or more. You can see blue-gray smoke pouring out of the exhaust pipe. Feel the presence of a greasy coating inside the tailpipe.
It’s past time to get a diagnosis. Either an external or internal oil leak is present in your engine.
2. How to Measure the Engine Oil Consumption Rate
It is possible that your engine does not emit any blue-gray smoke. Even yet, you may get the impression that you’re putting too much oil between oil changes. Perform the following test to determine the pace at which your engine oil is consumed:
- Wait around 20 or 30 minutes after you’ve parked your car on a level place to enable the oil in the engine to drain into the oil pan. Pull the oil dipstick out of the engine compartment by opening the hood. Remove the dirt and grime using a shop cloth
- To remove the dipstick, reinsert it entirely into the tube and draw it out once more. Check to see that the oil level indicators are completely filled. Alternatively, add the appropriate kind and amount of oil for your engine to ensure that the level is raised to the Full mark
- Once the engine has received the proper amount of oil, record the number of miles that the odometer indicates and keep this information in a secure location. Keep driving your automobile as you normally would, and check the oil level at least once a week (or before, if you think it necessary). In addition, keep an eye on the mileage. You’d want to know when you’ve traveled 3000 miles
- However, this is not possible.
Read More from AxleAddict
You should add one quart of oil at or before 3000 miles since the oil level on the dipstick has dropped to its lowest level, which indicates that your engine is consuming too much oil. It is possible that the engine has an exterior or internal oil leak. A tiny leak may be present if the engine has consumed more than half of a quart but less than one quart of fuel. If the engine consumed half a quart or less of oil, you may be within a fair limit, but you should still keep an eye on the amount of oil being used.
3. Why Is My Brand-New Car Consuming Too Much Oil?
Several new and relatively new automobile models have been plagued by complaints from owners who have had to top up their oil between oil changes. Although the makers of some of these cars claim that oil use between oil changes is typical, Consumer Reports claims that this is not the case for all of them. Once you have determined that your engine has begun to develop an oil leak, you must determine where the leak is coming from. External oil leaks are often simpler to discover than internal oil leaks since they may leave a visible sign of new oil someplace near the engine or on the floor where you park your vehicle.
If you believe that your engine has an oil leak but are unable to locate the cause, the information in the following two sections will assist you in diagnosing the problem.
4. Sources of External Oil Leaks
Probably the most prevalent reason of high oil consumption is the occurrence of external oil leaks. These types of leaks might occur as a result of worn out or crushed gaskets or seals, or as a result of a broken component. You may see a tiny pool of oil on the ground where you park, depending on the intensity of the leak and the location of the leak. Identifying the Leak’s Origin: 1. Visually inspect the PCV valve, as well as the hoses and grommets that connect it (for additional information, see Checking the PCV System).
A leaky grommet or hose in the system may also result in a constant flow of air and oil out of the crankcase.
If oil is dripping onto the floor, visually investigate the area immediately above the puddle of oil for signs of leakage.
- It is possible that you may need to elevate the front of your automobile with a floor jack. Place jack stands under the car, block the back wheels, and activate the parking brake. See whether there are any discolored or moist patches around the engine. Follow the damp spot all the way up to the most elevated position in the engine. If the engine is so heavily coated with dirt or oil that it is impossible to trace the leak back to its source, steam or pressure wash it. Then go around the engine to see if you can find the cause of the oil leak and stop it. Depending on where the leak is occurring (oil pan or valve cover), a gasket (engine front or rear), or a broken component (oil pan or drain plug) might be the culprit. If the leak appears to be coming from a high point around the cylinder head, look for it in the valve cover. Check to see that the gasket or O-ring on the valve cover is still in excellent condition. After that, check to see that the bolts are securely fastened (see your vehicle repair manual for the proper torque for your car type)
4. Another typical cause of leaks is the oil pan located beneath the engine’s crankcase. The condition of the oil pan gasket should be checked. Additionally, check to see that the bolts are tightened to the proper torque and that the drain plug and gasket are still in excellent working order. Consult the owner’s handbook for your car. 5. If the leak appears to be coming from the engine oil filter region, make sure that the filter is correctly tightened before proceeding. If you have recently replaced the filter, double-check that the old filter gasket has been removed as well.
- 6.
- It is possible that you may need to remove the timing belt cover.
- If the leak is located in the back of the engine, it is possible that the rear seal is leaking.
- It is possible that you will not be able to detect the leak through routine visual inspection since the leak is too small.
- Oil seeps into the combustion chamber as a result of worn-out piston oil rings.
5. Sources of Internal Oil Leaks
An internal oil leak in your engine, like an exterior oil leak, may manifest itself in the form of a telltale symptom. It is possible that you will notice a greasy film (or residue) within the exhaust of your vehicle. Oil escaping from the combustion chambers through the exhaust system is what you are seeing. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may notice blue-gray smoke coming from the exhaust. This is not to be confused with white or black smoke. You’ll also notice a progressive decrease in the level of engine oil.
Additionally, oil passing through the exhaust system can ultimately ruin your catalytic converter due to the anti-wear chemicals included inside the oil.
Any of these causes of abnormal oil leaks into the combustion chamber might cause abnormal oil leaks.
Oil may enter the combustion chamber through the piston rings or valves if a very thin coating of oil is allowed to flow through them. However, if you have any of the following difficulties, which might occur as a result of regular wear and tear or improper maintenance:
- Valve seals that are worn or broken, as well as worn valve stems or guides
- Worn out, jammed, or damaged piston rings
- Worn out cylinders
- And more.
A blocked crankcase ventilation system or valve is the cause of this problem. It is possible for sludge and varnish to accumulate and prevent blowby gases from recirculating. When the restriction is removed, internal crankcase pressure is increased, which speeds up the wear of piston rings and seals, causing oil to escape into the exhaust system or to seep through the engine’s intake manifold. Bearings. Bearings will wear out and eventually fail if they are subjected to excessive mileage or insufficient maintenance.
- It is possible that the pistons and piston oil-control rings will not be able to cope with the increased oil throw.
- In a similar vein, connecting rod and camshaft bearings can cause flooding in pistons, valve stems, and valve guide seals.
- A vacuum or compression engine test will assist you in determining whether or not your piston rings, cylinders, or valves are worn.
- Internal leaks can also be caused by timing issues with the ignition.
6. Unsuspected Ways You Are Increasing Engine Oil Consumption
It is not necessary for your vehicle’s engine to have accumulated a large number of kilometers or to have a worn-out gasket or seal or a broken part in order for it to begin leaking oil. There are a variety of surprising techniques to stimulate oil consumption or leakage, including:
- The ability to tow huge loads, particularly in difficult terrain
- It is advised that you use a lesser weight oil than that recommended by your automobile manufacturer: for example, moving from 15W-40 to 5W-30 or 10W-30
- When you switch to a low-quality oil, you might encourage carbon buildup around the piston rings, which can result in ring dysfunction and oil leaks. It is possible to develop hot spots around one or more cylinders when driving your car with an overheated engine (poor cooling system, faulty cooling fan, and/or thermostat). In addition, hot areas will cause the cylinder to bend and enable oil to escape into the combustion chamber, resulting in increased oil consumption. Failure to replace unclean engine oil can hasten the deterioration of gaskets and seals, as well as the wear of pistons, piston rings, cylinders, and bearings, which will increase the cost of ownership. Increased oil usage as a result of this. It is also possible that using the engine with ignition timing issues would result in excessive oil consumption. If the cylinders and valves are not properly synced, the vacuum may suck engine oil into the combustion chamber through the valve stems and guides.
Preventing these issues from arising in the first place or addressing them as soon as they arise will help you maintain control over engine oil usage and avoid more significant issues in the future. Preventing excessive oil consumption is even more crucial today that many newer car models have longer oil change intervals, making it much more critical to do so. Check your engine’s oil level and condition more regularly, at least once or twice a month, to ensure that it is operating properly. Additionally, change the oil when needed rather than waiting for the manufacturer’s recommended period.
Leaking oil pollutes the soil, while burning oil emits dangerous particles into the atmosphere, contaminating the environment.
To the best of the author’s knowledge, the information in this article is accurate and complete.
Content is provided solely for informative and entertainment reasons and should not be relied upon as a substitute for personal counsel or professional guidance in commercial, financial, legal, or technical problems, unless otherwise specified.
QuestionsAnswers
Question:On February 20th, I had a thorough oil change flush performed. On the 22nd of March, a loud noise could be heard coming from my engine. When I took it to the shop, they told me the engine was shot. There was no oil available. Everything appeared to be absolutely dry, and there was no trace of an oil leak. There were no sensor lights activated. Nothing. I returned to Mr. Lube, and they informed me that they had a video showing oil being poured into the machine. Furthermore, they claim that I would not have been able to drive for very long if they had not put oil in the vehicle.
My vehicle has been declared a complete loss.
In my Bakkie, the engine suddenly shut out as I was traveling.
I even took the pump to Bosch to have it tested, and they reported it was in perfect working order.
In order to determine whether the gasoline circuit (wires and connections) is functioning properly, The fuel pressure and flow rate may be impacted if the pump does not get sufficient electricity.
Question:A auto technician inquired as to whether a higher weight oil could be used for the 5W-20 suggested by the vehicle manufacturer.
I’m not sure what the response was.
Is it possible for a heavier weighted oil to create any form of leakage?
High-mileage engines, on the other hand, may require a heavier weighted oil from time to time, especially if the pressure has reduced as a result of wear.
Question:Will moving from a lightweight 0w 20 oil to a somewhat heavier oil reduce the amount of oil consumed by my car?
Question:I just repaired my top engine, replacing all of the seals, gaskets, and valves with new components.
What may be the source of the problem?
Typically, an internal leak will leave an oily thin film inside the tailpipe, indicating that it has occurred.
Question:How can a Toyota Quantum eat one pint of oil per day, although it does not emit any smoke and its performance is unaffected by the consumption of oil?
Visual inspection should be carried out thoroughly.
Check the condition of the coolant.
If there is one, it is being used to burn the oil.
Everything appears to be in working order; the smoke does not have a foul color, and there are no suspicious sounds to be heard.
If you suspect an internal or external leak, you can conduct an investigation.
Examine the various portions of the post.
I hope this has been of assistance.
There are no leaks, no loss of power, no smoke coming from the exhaust or soot surrounding the exhaust; no overheating; and no loss of oil pressure.
However, it is still using oil, which is frustrating.
Answer:I’m not very acquainted with the problem, however you can find this sort of issue with some diesel trucks manufactured between 2007 and the present day.
This is a process that is ongoing.
This can occur as a result of difficulties with the EGR or injection systems, as well as excessive stop-and-go driving.
You may try taking the car for a 20- or 30-minute trip on the highway every few days if you don’t do much highway driving. You might be surprised at the difference it can make. Obtain an inspection of the EGR and injection system, if necessary. Dan Ferrell was born in the year 2017.