2006, 3.8L, V6 with 72000 miles. Oil & filter changed every 3000 miles. Lately it has been low on oil by the time to change. It got to the point of being 1 qt low at 3000 miles and now today at 3100 miles, (oil change tomorrow,) it is almost 2 qt low. No oil spots on the garage floor, no blue smoke at start up or while driving, nothing at the tailpipe. Rub my finger into the tailpipe and it comes out clean and dry. No evidence of oil on undercarriage anywhere. I read about these engines having well over 200,000 miles on them and still going strong.

Any thoughts anyone? I need some guidance.

Kodiac

 

Common problem on what appears to be 2003ish and up 3.8 ltr engines. I have yet to read of a fix.

 

Some oil consumption is considered normal. In fact they have put a number on it for every 6-1000 miles 1L of oil is considered "normal". That being said most of my cars have not used any oil at all. Just keep it topped up and monitor it. If the situation gets worse it might be time to start diagnosing further issues.

 

Dodge will tell you 1 quart per 600 miles is normal, in my opinion that is excessive. If you haven't done the PCV valve in a while change that, but your year and engine size are known to have a bit of an oil consumption problem (not all, but some) and consumption you are experiencing is considered low by some of the less fortunate owners.

The fix is to change the piston rings, which is a major overhaul type procedure. For now I'd switch to a thicker oil and see if you can keep the consumption in check. Remember any oil burned does go through the catalytic converter and will lead to plugging and eventual failure of the cat.

 

Cougard41,drakkon1 & zero10, thank you for your fast reply. You have eased my mind. I was picturing something really major. I think I will try one grade thicker oil and then keep a closer check on the dipstick.

Thanks again, kodiac