The largest online repair guide library for every car

About us
Contact support
FAQ
Sign up
Sign in

Excessive Oil Consumption & P0420 on 2020 Equinox

0

Brittany E. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:39 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT

Hi all,

I'm having some worrying issues with my 2020 Chevrolet Equinox LT, 1.5L turbo engine. I've noticed that I'm adding a quart of oil every 1,500-2,000 miles, which seems really excessive for a vehicle with only 50,000 miles on it. I don't see any visible leaks under the car.

To make matters worse, my check engine light recently came on, and when I scanned it, I got a P0420 code (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1). Could these two problems be related? I'm concerned about the long-term health of the engine and the cost of replacing a catalytic converter.

Has anyone else experienced this with their Equinox? What steps should I take next? Is this something that might be covered under a powertrain warranty?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:39 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

Your concerns about excessive oil consumption and the P0420 code on your 2020 Chevrolet Equinox are valid, and these two issues are often interconnected. The 1.5L turbo engine in some GM vehicles has been known to experience higher-than-normal oil consumption.

Causes of Excessive Oil Consumption:

  1. PCV System Issues: A common culprit can be a faulty Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system, which can allow oil vapor to be drawn into the intake manifold and burned.
  2. Piston Ring Issues: In some cases, issues with piston rings (e.g., sticking or improper tension) can lead to oil bypassing the rings and burning in the combustion chamber.
  3. Turbocharger Seals: Worn or failing turbocharger seals can also allow oil to leak into the exhaust or intake.

Connection to P0420:

Excessive oil burning can lead to the P0420 code. When oil is burned, it leaves behind ash and deposits that can foul the oxygen sensors and, more critically, coat and damage the catalytic converter. This reduces the converter's efficiency, triggering the P0420 code, which indicates the catalytic converter is not performing as it should.

What to do:

  1. Oil Consumption Test: A dealership will likely perform an oil consumption test to officially document the rate of oil loss. This usually involves sealing the oil fill cap and drain plug, marking the oil level, and having you return after a specified mileage.
  2. PCV System Inspection: Have the PCV system thoroughly inspected for clogs or failures.
  3. Engine Diagnostics: Further diagnostics may be needed to pinpoint the exact cause of oil consumption, which could involve compression tests or borescope inspections.
  4. Catalytic Converter: If the oil consumption is resolved, the P0420 code may clear on its own after some driving, or the catalytic converter may need replacement if it's too damaged.

When to see a shop:

It's crucial to address both issues promptly. Schedule an appointment with your Chevrolet dealership. Your vehicle, being a 2020 model, is likely still under the 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Excessive oil consumption and related catalytic converter damage could potentially be covered under this warranty, especially if it's determined to be a manufacturing defect. Bring all your oil change and top-off records.

Menu

Help & account