Engine - Oil Consumption/Oil Economy Test
No.: TSB-03-11-001DATE: February, 2003
MODEL: All Models
SUBJECT:
OIL ECONOMY TEST &
OIL CONSUMPTION EVALUATION
This bulletin revises and replaces TSB-02-11-001REV, issued October 2002, to revise the acceptable rate of oil consumption, the evaluation test procedure, and the test sheet.
Revised information is indicated by arrows.
PURPOSE
This bulletin addresses concerns about excessive oil consumption. Solutions to oil consumption problems can be made easier by involving the customer in the evaluation process. If there is no obvious cause for the vehicle's reported excessive oil consumption, ask the customer to participate in a simple oil economy/consumption test. This bulletin contains an "OIL ECONOMY/CONSUMPTION DATA TEST SHEET & CALCULATION FORM" with a recommended test procedure. Make copies and use it when there isn't an obvious cause of excessive oil consumption.
After the test is completed give a copy to the customer. Keep another in the service file for the vehicle to support any oil consumption-related warranty claim.
NOTE:
MMNA warranty policy states that under normal driving conditions, oil consumption of --> one quart (0.95 litre) or less per 1.250 miles (2.000 km) driven is considered acceptable.
AFFECTED VEHICLES
All Mitsubishi vehicles
TEST PROCEDURE
1. Interview the owner for details about the owner's concerns related to their vehicle's oil consumption. Ask about the following:
^ Type of driving (stop-and-go, freeway, sustained high speeds, frequent idling, towing, etc.)
^ Type of oil used
^ Maintenance vehicle has received
^ Has vehicle overheated? Has it run low on oil or coolant?
2. Ask the customer to participate in the oil economy/consumption test, and give them a copy of the --> "OIL ECONOMY/CONSUMPTION DATA TEST SHEET & CALCULATION FORM" at the end of this bulletin. Explain to the customer that they will be required to RETURN TO THE DEALERSHIP TWO TIMES, EVERY 1,250 MILES (+/- 50 MILES), or 2,000 km (+/- 80 km) TO HAVE THE OIL LEVEL CHECKED AND REFILLED IF NECESSARY. Emphasize to the customer the importance of returning AS CLOSE TO 1,250 MILES as possible. If the customer exceeds the allowable limit, the evaluation will be terminated and will have to be started again. The customer should NOT check the oil level during the evaluation period. The purpose of two visits is to obtain an accurate average of the engine's oil consumption. Do not take any position regarding the vehicle's condition or oil economy until the evaluation is completed and results are collected and reviewed by MMNA personnel.
NOTE:
If the customer does not regularly drive at least 1,250 miles (2,000 km) per month, ask the customer to return to the dealership at 625 mile (1,000 km) intervals. The customer must return two times.
3. Inspect the vehicle for any obvious possible causes of high oil usage:
^ During a test drive, look for smoking exhaust while decelerating, which may indicate bad valve stem oil seals or worn valve guides.
^ Check the coolant for any indication that oil is escaping into the cooling system. Repair any obvious causes of high oil consumption at this time. Warranty policy will determine whether the repair work is covered by warranty or done as customer pay.
4. Change the oil and filter. Make sure that the oil used during the test is of the recommended service classification and viscosity for the vehicle and climate. Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual or service manual for recommended oil specifications.
5. Seal the engine.
^ Seal the crankcase by painting a mark across the oil pan drain plug.
^ Seal the dipstick and oil filler cap with tape to prevent removal without disturbing the tape seal.
6. Give the test form (at the end of this bulletin) to the customer and review it with them. The customer should agree to bring the car back to your dealership periodically to have the oil level checked and the dipstick re-sealed (and oil filler cap if oil is added).
7. Each time the customer returns for an oil usage check during the test period, check the oil as follows:
^ The vehicle must be on a level surface.
^ The engine should be thoroughly warmed up.
^ Let the vehicle sit for at least 5 minutes after the engine is stopped so the oil can drain down into the oil pan.
^ Add oil when the dipstick indicates "ADD", or when the oil level drops one or more quarts below the "FULL" mark.
NOTE:
If possible, for consistency during the evaluation, have the same service advisor perform the check and sign the form each time the customer returns.
8. Record the mileage at the start of each oil check in the proper column on the form. If oil is added, enter the quantity in the proper column on the form.
9. Duration of test and Oil Usage Calculation:
After the test has concluded, use the completed form to calculate the actual oil consumption rate. Make two copies of the completed form. Give the customer a copy and keep a copy with the repair order.
If, according to the test results, the oil consumption is determined to be excessive, make the --> necessary corrective repairs. If the excessive oil consumption is due to a warrantable failure, the customer should be reimbursed under warranty for the initial oil change they paid for during this evaluation. Refer to MMNA warranty procedures.
WARRANTY INFORMATION
--> No warranty claim may be submitted for the performance of this test. If the vehicle is determined to be using an excessive amount of oil and a warranty repair is performed, the performance of this test would be considered normal diagnosis and included in the labor operation claimed for the repair.