oil consumption after spark plug change
 

Hey all,

Have a 2009 V^ Outie with about 140000km on it. I was getting a misfire code on a cylinder so we decided to change the plugs.

Seems to be driving great and probably a little smoother acceleration as well.

However, I just checked the oil, and it is down about 3/4 of the way between the two holes on the dipstick (colse to a quart maybe??).

It was full to the top hole when it got changed and this vehicle has NEVER burned oil. It has been very consistent. I have never had to add any oil.

So my question is can changing out spark plugs cause a drop in oil?

The mechanic said that the old plugs looked worn, but nothing to suggest anything was wrong.

No visible leaks, or smells, or blue smoke.

Thoughts?
Thanks!

The only thing I can think of is if the PCV was disturbed and is no longer working. A faulty PCV will cause an increase in oil consumption.

Just to make sure, check the oil after the vehicle has been sitting a while, to make sure oil had drained back down completely.

I only check it in the morning after the car sat all night...Like I said it is usually perfect.

Would a faulty PCV throw a code? If not, how does one check to make sure it is working correctly?

I wish I would have checked it right before I took it in. It's been a few months, so I guess I can't rule out it dropped before the spark plug change...but it has never lost oil before.

I am due for a change soon so maybe I'll wait until after that to see if the next change goes down as well.

from the service manual, page 17c-9:
1.Remove the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valve from
the rocker cover, then reconnect the PCV valve to the vacuum
supply hose.
2.With the engine idling, put your finger on the open end of the
PCV valve, and check for negative pressure (vacuum).
NOTE: At this time, the plunger in the PCV valve should
move back and forth as the open end is covered and
uncovered.
3.If negative pressure is not felt, clean or replace the PCV valve.
Inspect the vacuum supply hose and vacuum supply hose port
for restriction or plugged condition.

The mechanic said everything was fine with the PCV valve and that no external leaks could be found.

Do you have to do anything with the PCV valve when changing out the spark plugs?

Is the service manual stickied in this outlander thread? I am at work at it won't let me open it to check.


Thanks,
Dave

I guess I am just wondering if I should have let the dealership do this and that maybe a non mitsubishi trained mechanic might have messed something up. Other than the PCV valve, is there anything obvious that might cause an increased oil consumption by replacing the spark plugs?

Thanks