I have a 2006 Honda Accord SE with 140,000+ miles on it. It's had a oil leak for a while. I never see any leaks on the ground, but the oil level drops and there is a lot of black residue on the inside of the exhaust. I've tried Lucas Oil Leak Stop a couple times now, but it doesn't seem to be doing much. I've been using synthetic for years now. I know you're not supposed to switch back and forth to conventional, but I've also heard that synthetic oil may leak more than conventional. Should I be using synthetic? Should I try a different oil leak stop like ATP AT-205 Re-Seal? Thanks for any help!

 

Or, should I switch to high mileage oil?

 

How much oil do you add per 1000 miles?

Occasionally, PCV system can cause exess oil consumption when PCV valve or hose is blocked. This causes oil vapor to be pushed (reversed flow) into the engine via the PCV fresh air intake. An oily throttle plate and throttle bore are indicators of PCV oil consumption.

Some leaks may never make it to ground and get burnt on hot exhaust pipe. Check valve cover carefully.

good luck

 

I'll have to check home much oil needs to be added right now, after 2,000 miles. I've had the PCV valve replaced and a leak down test performed. I was told the repairs would be $1,000+ for a car which is only worth ~$5,000.

Do you have any suggestions regarding type of oil I should use or leak stop additives? Thanks!

 

All cars use oil to some degree. It is not recommended to add stop leaks.

If it was a leak, find the leak and replace the respective seal, etc. rather than adding stop leak.

It may or may not be anything to worry about depending on how much it uses. It may even be considered normal usage; but, you haven't stated how much oil has to be added and at what intervals.

If there was no obvious leak, and the car consumed a lot of oil, it may be due to the piston oil control rings.

It may even be more cost-effective to just add oil when needed depending on the how much oil is being used.

 

First job is to check oil. If you haven't checked in 2K miles, it's been far too long.

Low oil has been associated w/ problems w/ the VTC system, if you have this feature.

good luck

 

So I just added about 1/2 quart to bring my oil back to the upper level on the dip stick. I can't remember if I added oil after my road trip, but its been 1,000-2,000 miles, so I guess thats not too bad. I'll just have to check the oil more often. Is it worth switching to conventional, or should I just stick with synthetic? Thanks again!

 

Either is fine. Since using a small amount, conventional oil will be less expensive.

good luck