Why Is My Vehicle Burning Oil?

May 26, 2025

Why Is My Vehicle Burning Oil?

Is Your Vehicle Burning Oil? What Universal City Drivers Need to Know – Victory Lane Automotive

You check your dipstick and notice the oil is low—again. Maybe there’s a cloud of blue smoke when you start your car, or you’ve caught a faint burnt-oil smell after driving.

If this sounds familiar, you may be dealing with a common but serious issue: your car is burning oil.

At Victory Lane Automotive in Universal City, TX, we’ve helped countless drivers uncover and repair the root cause of oil consumption before it turns into major engine damage. Whether you're driving a daily commuter, work truck, or high-performance vehicle, oil burning is not something to ignore.


What Does It Mean When a Car Burns Oil?

Burning oil occurs when engine oil enters the combustion chamber—the same space where air and fuel mix and ignite. That oil, instead of lubricating the engine, is burned off during combustion. This causes your oil level to drop without any visible external leaks.

This problem usually points to internal engine wear or failure, and left unaddressed, can lead to costly damage or even full engine failure.


Common Signs Your Car Is Burning Oil

If your vehicle is experiencing internal oil consumption, you may notice:

  • Frequent low oil levels

  • Blue or bluish-gray smoke from the tailpipe (especially on startup or acceleration)

  • Burning oil smell inside or around the vehicle

  • Oily spark plugs or engine misfires

  • Drop in fuel efficiency or sluggish performance

  • Check engine or low oil pressure light

Victory Lane Automotive recommends acting early on these warning signs. A small oil consumption issue can snowball into significant engine damage if ignored.


Top Causes of Oil Burning

Our Universal City repair team often sees the following culprits:

1. Worn Piston Rings

The piston rings seal combustion gases and regulate oil consumption. When they wear out or seize from carbon buildup, oil slips past them and burns in the combustion chamber.

2. Worn or Cracked Valve Seals

These seals prevent oil from leaking into the cylinders through the valve guides. Over time, especially in high-heat Texas conditions, they harden and allow oil to pass through.

3. PCV System Failure

The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve manages engine pressure and recirculates blow-by gases. A clogged or failed PCV system can push oil into the intake manifold, causing it to burn during combustion.

4. Cylinder Wall Scoring

Engines with high mileage or inconsistent oil changes can develop cylinder wear, reducing the ability to seal properly and allowing oil past the rings.

5. Turbo Seal Leaks (Turbocharged Engines)

If your engine has a turbocharger, the turbo seals can wear and let oil enter the intake or exhaust system, producing smoke and oil loss.


Is It Leaking or Burning Oil? Here’s the Difference

While both lead to a low oil level, they have different causes:

  • Oil Leaks are external. You may see oil on the driveway or under the engine.

  • Oil Burning is internal. The oil is combusted inside the engine and exits through the exhaust.

At Victory Lane Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians perform a complete inspection to pinpoint the true source—because guessing is not an option when your engine is on the line.


How We Diagnose Oil Burning at Victory Lane Automotive

We use advanced tools and a proven inspection process:

  1. Check oil usage over time to measure consumption

  2. Compression and leak-down tests to assess piston ring and valve integrity

  3. Borescope inspection of cylinder walls and valves

  4. PCV system pressure and functionality check

  5. Spark plug examination for signs of oil fouling

  6. Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) research to check for known oil consumption issues with your specific vehicle

Our job is to provide accurate answers, not band-aid fixes.


Is It Dangerous to Keep Driving a Car That Burns Oil?

Yes. Ignoring oil burning can lead to:

  • Engine overheating

  • Catalytic converter failure

  • Carbon buildup in the engine

  • Poor fuel economy and rough running

  • Engine seizure or complete failure due to low oil

What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a major—and expensive—problem.


Can Oil Burning Be Repaired?

Absolutely. Once we identify the cause, Victory Lane Automotive offers solutions tailored to your vehicle and your goals:

  • Replace PCV valve – often the simplest and most cost-effective fix

  • Replace valve seals – ideal for top-end sealing issues

  • Repair or replace piston rings – more intensive but restores full engine function

  • Engine rebuild or replacement – for severe internal damage

  • Turbo repair or reseal – if oil is entering through the turbo system

  • Use high-mileage oil blends – may help reduce consumption in mild cases

We walk you through all your options so you can make an informed decision—whether you're trying to extend the life of your vehicle or preparing for a trade-in or sale.


How to Prevent Oil Burning in the First Place

Texas heat, highway driving, and stop-and-go traffic take a toll on engines. Prevention starts with smart maintenance:

  • Change your oil on time, every time

  • Use the right oil weight and formulation

  • Check your oil level every 1,000 miles

  • Address warning lights or smoke right away

  • Have your PCV system checked during routine services

At Victory Lane Automotive, we build maintenance plans that keep your vehicle performing—and avoid surprise engine failures.


Why Universal City Drivers Trust Victory Lane Automotive

We’re not just a repair shop—we’re part of the community. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • ASE-certified technicians with advanced diagnostic tools

  • Honest, transparent service and no surprise costs

  • High-quality repairs, done right the first time

  • Specialized experience with domestic, Asian, and European vehicles

  • Trusted by families, businesses, and performance drivers alike

If your vehicle is losing oil, smoking, or just not running like it used to—don’t guess. Let Victory Lane Automotive help you get back on track.


Book Your Oil Consumption Diagnostic Today

Think your car is burning oil? Don’t wait until it becomes a major repair.

📍 Visit us at: 264 Kitty Hawk Rd, Universal City, TX 78148
📞
Call now: (726) 222-1264
🌐
Schedule online at: https://victorylane-uc.com/

Victory Lane Automotive – Keeping Universal City Driving Clean, Powerful, and Reliable.



For more information please watch the video

https://youtu.be/qEnYS1gNjH0


By Mathew Flack October 29, 2025
Keep Your Cadillac at Its Best: Expert Service and Repairs in Universal City, TX Your Cadillac isn’t just transportation-it’s a statement of comfort, performance, and craftsmanship. To keep it running smoothly for years to come, regular maintenance and expert repairs are key. At Victory Lane Automotive, we specialize in European and luxury vehicle care, including full-service maintenance and repairs for Cadillac models of all kinds. Why Cadillac Maintenance Matters Every Cadillac is engineered with precision and advanced technology. Regular maintenance ensures all of those systems-from the powerful engine to the advanced suspension-work as intended. When maintenance is skipped or delayed, small issues can quickly turn into expensive repairs. Key benefits of staying on top of your Cadillac’s maintenance include: Longer vehicle life – Regular oil changes, inspections, and fluid flushes prevent wear and tear. Better performance – Keep your Cadillac’s acceleration, handling, and braking as smooth as the day you bought it. Improved safety – Faulty brakes, worn tires, or electrical issues can put you and your passengers at risk. Higher resale value – A well-maintained Cadillac holds its value much better than one with spotty service records. Common Cadillac Services We Offer At Victory Lane Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians use the latest diagnostic tools and high-quality parts to ensure your Cadillac gets dealership-level care-without the dealership price tag. Some of our Cadillac repair and maintenance services include: Engine Diagnostics & Repairs – From warning lights to performance issues, we’ll pinpoint and fix the cause. Transmission Services – Expert repairs and maintenance for smooth shifting and reliability. Brake Service & Replacement – Precision brake work for dependable stopping power. Suspension & Steering Repairs – Keep your Cadillac’s ride comfort and control in top shape. Electrical System Repairs – We handle everything from battery testing to complex electrical troubleshooting. Air Conditioning Service – Stay cool and comfortable year-round. Preventative Maintenance – Routine inspections, fluid changes, and tune-ups designed to prevent costly breakdowns. Luxury Service You Can Trust We know your Cadillac deserves special care. That’s why our shop offers: 3-Year / 36,000-Mile Nationwide Warranty Courtesy Shuttle & Loaner Vehicles Friendly, Family-Owned Service You Can Count On Schedule Your Cadillac Service Today Whether you drive an Escalade, XT5 , or CT6 , you can trust Victory Lane Automotive to keep your Cadillac running in peak condition. Preventative maintenance today means fewer headaches tomorrow. 📍 Visit us at 264 Kitty Hawk Rd, Universal City, TX 📞 Call us today or schedule your appointment online!
By Victory Lane Automotive October 18, 2025
Trust Victory Lane Automotive in Universal City, TX for thorough pre-purchase and state inspections. Ensure vehicle safety and compliance. Schedule an appointment now!
By Mathew Flack October 10, 2025
Expert Brake Repair and Rotor Replacement in Universal City, TX When it comes to keeping your car safe, your brake system is one area you never want to overlook. Whether you’re taking a quick drive around Universal City or heading out on a Texas road trip, reliable brakes are what stand between you and a potential accident. But how do you know when it’s time for service—and why is it so important to stay on top of it? What Your Brake System Really Does Your brakes are more than just a pedal and a few pads—they’re a complex system that converts the energy of a moving vehicle into heat to slow you down safely. Here’s what’s happening every time you hit the brake pedal: 1. Hydraulic pressure pushes brake fluid through your lines. 2. Brake calipers clamp down on the rotors. 3. Brake pads create friction against the spinning rotors, slowing your wheels. Over time, that friction wears down both the pads and rotors. Once they thin out or warp, your braking performance can drop fast—and that’s when trouble begins. What Happens If You Wait Too Long Ignoring worn brakes can lead to: • Increased stopping distance – making it harder to stop quickly in an emergency. • Grinding or metal-on-metal contact – which can destroy your rotors and skyrocket repair costs. • Vibration and steering issues – caused by uneven rotor wear. • Brake fade – when your brakes overheat and lose effectiveness, especially on long downhill drives. A small brake issue today can easily turn into a big (and expensive) one tomorrow. Common Warning Signs Watch for these everyday indicators that your brakes need attention: • A squealing, scraping, or grinding noise when braking • A soft or spongy pedal feel • Pulling to one side while braking • A burning smell after heavy braking • The brake warning light glowing on your dash If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your system checked by a certified technician. Brake Pads vs. Rotors: What’s the Difference? • Brake Pads: These are the components that wear out the fastest. They’re designed to create friction but will eventually get thin and lose stopping power. • Rotors: These metal discs can develop grooves or warping over time. When that happens, you might feel shaking or vibration in your steering wheel during braking. Replacing both when needed ensures smooth, quiet, and safe performance. Why Local Drivers Trust Victory Lane Automotive At Victory Lane Automotive, we take brake safety seriously. Our ASE-certified technicians perform complete brake inspections, pad and rotor replacements, and fluid flushes using top-quality parts. We service all makes and models—and stand behind our work with a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty. Need to stay on the go? We offer loaner cars and a courtesy shuttle, so you never miss a beat while we keep your brakes in peak condition.
By Mathew Flack September 30, 2025
Auto Repairs Made Easy with Flexible Financing at Victory Lane Automotive At Victory Lane Automotive, we know that unexpected car repairs don’t always come at the best time. Whether it’s a transmission issue, brake replacement, or a sudden check engine light, the cost can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer flexible financing options to help you get back on the road without added stress. Our goal is simple: provide you with exceptional service, peace of mind, and solutions that fit your budget. When you choose Victory Lane, you also benefit from: • 3-Year / 36,000-Mile Nationwide Warranty – Confidence that your repairs are covered long after you leave our shop. • Loaner Vehicles & Courtesy Shuttle – Keep your day moving while we take care of your car. • Exceptional Customer Service – Friendly, professional, and always here to make the repair process simple and transparent. And when it comes to covering those larger repairs or even everyday vehicle expenses, our financing options have you covered. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Our Financing Options Synchrony Financing Use the Synchrony Car Care Credit Card for everything from major repairs to everyday vehicle needs like gas, auto insurance, parking, car washes, and even rideshares. Accepted at thousands of locations nationwide, Synchrony makes financing simple. Benefits include: • Easy application process • Immediate purchasing power • Instant credit decisions • No annual fee • Stress-free financing with low monthly payments • 24/7 online account management ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Snap Financing Perfect for customers with any type of credit history—even if you’ve gone through bankruptcy. Snap Finance offers an easy lease-to-own process designed to get you approved quickly and conveniently. Why Snap Finance? • Works with all credit types • Hassle-free, fast approval process • Payment plans that align with your payday schedule • Early payoff options to save money ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ EasyPay Finance Looking for transparent financing with flexible terms? EasyPay Finance is a great solution. Highlights include: • 90-Day Finance Charge Cap Promotion – Keep finance charges capped at just $40 if you pay off your balance within 90 days and meet simple requirements. • Flexible payment options tailored to your needs • Simple and straightforward application process ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Drive with Confidence At Victory Lane Automotive, we believe that car repairs should never keep you from moving forward. With our trusted warranty, helpful loaner and shuttle services, and multiple financing options, you can feel confident knowing we’ve got your back. Don’t wait until repairs become overwhelming—visit us today and ask about financing options that work for you!
By Victory Lane Automotive September 20, 2025
Ensure your vehicle's belts & hoses are in top condition at Victory Lane Automotive in Universal City, TX. Professional service & expert advice. Visit us today!
By Mathew Flack September 15, 2025
Is Your Car Trying to Tell You Something? When to Get a Computer Diagnostic If your check engine light just came on—or worse, it’s flashing—your car is trying to communicate with you. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced computers that monitor everything from the engine to the transmission, fuel system, and emissions. When something isn’t working properly, your car will let you know. The fastest way to find the issue? A computer diagnostic scan. At Victory Lane Automotive in Universal City, we specialize in pinpointing problems quickly and accurately with advanced diagnostic tools. As a highly rated local mechanic near you, we’re here to help you catch small issues before they turn into big, costly repairs. Top Signs It’s Time for a Car Diagnostic Here are the most common warning signs that it’s time to bring your car in for a diagnostic check: Check Engine Light On – A steady light means a minor issue, but a flashing light signals a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Loss of Power or Sluggish Performance – If your vehicle struggles to accelerate or feels weak, your engine may not be running efficiently. Rough Idling, Stalling, or Hard Restarts – Uneven running or unexpected stalls often point to engine misfires or fuel delivery issues. Poor Gas Mileage – If you’re filling up more often, diagnostics can reveal issues in your fuel system or sensors. Strange Smells or Noises – Burning odors, chemical smells, knocking, or hissing sounds should never be ignored. Overheating – Warning lights, steam from the hood, or a high temperature gauge mean your car needs attention immediately. If you notice any of these, it’s time to search “auto repair near me”—and trust that Victory Lane Automotive is your answer. Why Diagnostics Matter A quick code scan at a parts store only tells part of the story. The truth is, a diagnostic trouble code doesn’t equal a full diagnosis—it just points to the system where the problem lies. At Victory Lane Automotive, our ASE-certified technicians go beyond reading codes. We trace the root cause of the issue so you don’t waste money on unnecessary parts or temporary fixes. Why Local Drivers Choose Victory Lane Automotive Convenient & Local – No need to drive far. We’re right here in Universal City and proudly serve our community. Highly Rated & Trusted – Customers consistently give us top reviews for honest, reliable service. State-of-the-Art Tools – Our advanced scanners catch issues across the engine, transmission, brakes, AC system, and more. Prevent Costly Repairs – Addressing problems early keeps your vehicle safe and saves you money down the road. When you search “mechanic near me” or “engine diagnostic Universal City”, we’re the shop that local drivers rely on. Don’t Ignore the Warning Signs Your vehicle’s computer system is designed to protect you—and ignoring warning lights or performance issues can turn a small problem into a major repair. If your check engine light is on, or if you’ve noticed any of the warning signs above, schedule your car diagnostic with Victory Lane Automotive today. We’ll make sure your vehicle is road-ready, safe, and running at its best. Victory Lane Automotive — your trusted, local, highly rated auto repair shop near San Antonio.
By Victory Lane Automotive August 23, 2025
Ensure comfort year-round with top-notch AC repair & service at Victory Lane Automotive in Universal City, TX. Schedule an appointment today!
By Mathew Flack August 13, 2025
Keep It or Trade It? Why Hanging onto Your Vehicle May Be the Smarter Move! With new car prices at an all-time high, many drivers are facing a big decision: do I invest in maintaining my current vehicle, or is it time to buy something new? The temptation of that “new car smell” is real—but so is the reality of $1,000 + monthly car payments. According to recent data, the average new vehicle loan is now over $1,000 per month before factoring in insurance, taxes, and fees. That’s a big chunk of change coming out of your wallet every single month—often for 6 to 7 years. The True Cost of Ownership: New vs. Existing Vehicle Let’s say your current car or truck needs $1,500 in repairs or maintenance. It might feel like a lot upfront, but compare that to dropping $12,000+ per year on a new vehicle loan. That $1,500 investment could buy you another year (or several) of reliable driving—without the monthly financial pressure. And here's the thing: even new cars require maintenance. Oil changes, brakes, tire rotations, alignments, and fluid flushes don’t disappear just because the car is newer. If you already stay on top of your vehicle’s maintenance, you’re more than halfway to extending its lifespan and keeping it dependable. What Maintenance Really Means Many customers come to us thinking their vehicle is “on its last leg,” when really, it just needs a little TLC. At Victory Lane Automotive, we focus on preventative maintenance—things like: • Fluid checks and replacements • Suspension and steering inspections • Battery and charging system testing • Brake services • Cooling system and radiator checks • Regular oil changes These aren't just repairs—they’re investments in keeping your vehicle running stronger, longer. Your Vehicle Might Be Worth More Than You Think Modern vehicles are built to last well past 150,000 or even 200,000 miles with proper care. If your car is paid off and still running well, it may be more valuable sitting in your driveway than trying to sell or trade it in. Plus, you’re familiar with it. You know how it drives, its quirks, and its history. A new vehicle? That’s a whole new learning curve—and potentially a whole new list of unexpected issues. The Bottom Line: Before you sign up for years of payments and interest, consider this: could your current vehicle just need a little maintenance love? At Victory Lane Automotive, we can help you weigh your options honestly and provide a thorough vehicle inspection to assess what’s needed (and what’s not). If you’re sold on trading in your current vehicle, we provide a pre-purchase inspection—which is a detailed health report of the vehicle with recommended repairs/services in order to plan ahead for your future vehicle. Keep our customer’s well informed and creating a stress-free experience is what we aim for. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to keep your car safe, reliable, and road-ready. Schedule a diagnostic or inspection today—and drive with confidence.
By Mathew Flack August 5, 2025
Is Your Car Due for a Tune-Up? Here's What You Need to Know ... If your car’s been running a little rough, your gas mileage has dropped, or your check engine light won’t turn off—it's probably time for a tune-up. At Victory Lane Auto, we specialize in tune-up services for all makes and models, especially European vehicles. Whether you're in San Antonio, Schertz, Selma, Converse , or Live Oak , our ASE-certified technicians are here to keep your engine running at its best. 🔧 What is a Tune-Up? A car tune-up is preventative maintenance that helps keep your engine performing efficiently and reliably. It typically includes: • Replacing spark plugs • Inspecting and replacing air filters • Checking ignition timing • Cleaning the fuel system • Testing battery and charging systems These small services go a long way in avoiding costly repairs down the road. 🚨 Signs You Need a Tune-Up If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, search no further than Victory Lane Auto: • Engine misfires or idles rough • Poor fuel economy • Difficulty starting • Loss of power or acceleration (sluggish) • Dashboard warning lights (especially the check engine light) Searching "car running rough near me" or "why is my engine shaking?"? We’ve got answers—and solutions. Your driving habits, environment (roads/climate) attribute to what and when services are recommended. 🌟 Why Choose Victory Lane Automotive? ✅ Family-Owned and Operated ✅ ASE-Certified Technicians ✅ 3-Year / 36,000-Mile Warranty ✅ European Vehicle Specialists ✅ Friendly, Honest Service Our shop at 264 Kitty Hawk Rd in Universal City is just minutes from Selma, Live Oak, Converse , and Schertz , and we offer courtesy shuttles and loaner cars for your convenience. 🛠 When to Schedule a Tune-Up Every vehicle is different, but as a rule of thumb, schedule a tune-up every 30,000 miles or once a year—whichever comes first. If you’re unsure, come in for a multi-point inspection and we’ll let you know what your vehicle needs. Ready to Schedule? Stop searching "best tune-up near me"—Victory Lane Auto is your trusted neighborhood shop. Book your tune-up today and keep your car running like new. 📞 Call us at (210) 658-8325 📍 Visit: https://www.victorylane-uc.com/
By Mathew Flack July 30, 2025
WHY IS MY CAR PULLING? WHEEL ALIGNMENT NEAR ME Wondering if your vehicle is due for a wheel alignment? Ask yourself these questions: • Does your steering wheel sit off-center? • Does your vehicle veer or pull in one direction? • Does your vehicle vibrate while driving? • Do you notice uneven tire wear? These issues can occur naturally over time due to aging parts- or suddenly after hitting an unavoidable pothole or curb. Your vehicle is designed with preset angles determined by the manufacturer to ensure your tires are properly aligned with each other and the road. When even one wheel is out of alignment (meaning it's angled differently than intended), your vehicle won’t drive as smoothly or efficiently. During your visit to Victory Lane Auto , we’ll include a detailed diagram in your Digital Vehicle Inspection showing the alignment angles of your vehicle: • Caster: Compares the steering axis to the vertical axis from a side view of the vehicle. • Camber: Measures the vertical tilt of the wheels from the front or rear view. • Toe: Indicates whether the wheels point inward or outward when viewed from above. A proper wheel alignment improves drivability, prevents uneven tire wear, and extends the life of your tires. We recommend checking your alignment every other oil change, at least once a year, or immediately after buying new tires- especially if you answered “yes” to any of the questions above. 📞 Give us a call at (210) 658-8325 for a professional alignment check. We'll also inspect your tires, steering, and suspension components. We look forward to serving you-and earning your trust as a lifelong customer!