Honda Car Forum

I have a 2003 Accord, 4 cycl, Auto. I have always stayed on top of my oil changes and most of the maintenance for the 1st 4 years. About 8 months ago, I noticed the oil light on as I was leaving for work - drove directly to Honda as I still have at least 1000 K before I was due for next change...it was nearly empty...I was pissed. I switched to a different service provider....a little while later - same thing. It does not leak oil, it does not burn blue but it uses oil. I watch it and add oil myself as necessary. In the past 2 months it has started shifting oddly....meaning, it seems to shift down when coasting, probably normal, but I may accellerate and it shifts up noticeably...I think it is just that I am noticing it because it is not smooth. Took it to another mechanic to check timing, spark plugs etc. He suggested, and did, an engine treatmeant on it noting a lot of soot build up in the tail pipe....felt maybe the oxygen sensor was off and it was adding too much ??, making it burn too much oil - you got me? Any thoughts, help, similar problems - all info appreciated?? Just to add it is in year 6, has 248K....was expecting to 450K. Mechanic indicates that if engine treatment doesn't work, it is likley a big engine job...basically an engine re-build, replacement.

Maybe he ment that the Oxygen sensor was telling the computer to add too much gas. If that was the case you probably would get a check engine light on. In the other hand too much gas could glaze the cylinder walls and cause excessive oil consumption. Check your spark plugs to see if they are oil sudded.

Hi Ral, Thanks for the reply.
I believe that is what he meant; and yes, checked the spark plugs - they are clean.....I did have my Check Engine light come on back in 2006 - had the Oxygen Sensor replaced at that time.