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2015 Chrysler 200S - Burning Oil Smell and Low Oil Light

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:21 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2015 Chrysler 200S 2.4L

I've got a 2015 Chrysler 200S with the 2.4L engine, and I'm getting a strong burning oil smell, especially after driving for a while. I also noticed the 'low oil pressure' warning light flash on and off occasionally, mostly when I'm at a stop or low RPMs. I checked the dipstick, and it was significantly below the 'add' mark, even though I had an oil change about 3,000 miles ago.

I'm worried about what's causing this. Is this a common issue with these 2.4L engines? Could it be a leak, or is my engine burning oil internally? I haven't noticed any visible puddles under the car. I'm thinking about topping it off and monitoring, but the low oil pressure light is concerning. Any advice?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:21 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

The issues you're describing with your 2015 Chrysler 200S (2.4L engine) – a burning oil smell, significant oil consumption, and the low oil pressure warning light – are serious and need immediate attention. The 2.4L "Tigershark" engine used in some Chrysler models from this era has been known to experience higher-than-normal oil consumption in some instances.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and what to do:

  1. Oil Consumption (Internal): The most concerning possibility is that your engine is burning oil internally. This can be due to:
    • Piston Ring Issues: Worn or stuck piston rings can allow oil to bypass into the combustion chamber, leading to burning oil and exhaust smoke (though you haven't mentioned smoke, it might not always be visible).
    • Valve Stem Seals: Worn valve stem seals can allow oil to leak past the valves and into the combustion chamber.
    • PCV System: A faulty PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valve or clogged PCV system can lead to excessive oil consumption.
  2. External Oil Leaks: Even without visible puddles, oil can leak onto hot exhaust components, causing a burning smell. Common leak points include:
    • Valve Cover Gasket: Oil can seep from the valve cover onto the exhaust manifold.
    • Oil Filter Housing/Cooler: These are known leak points on some 2.4L engines.
    • Front/Rear Main Seals: Though less common, these can also leak.
  3. Low Oil Pressure Light: This light is critical. When it illuminates, it means the engine is not receiving adequate lubrication. This can lead to catastrophic engine damage (bearing wear, seized components) very quickly. The fact that it flashes at low RPMs suggests pressure drops significantly when the oil pump isn't working as hard, often exacerbated by low oil levels.

When to See a Shop: Do not continue to drive the vehicle with the low oil pressure light activating, even intermittently. Driving with insufficient oil pressure can cause irreversible engine damage. You need to:

  1. Immediately top off the oil to the full mark. Use the correct oil type and viscosity specified in your owner's manual.
  2. Take your car to a trusted mechanic or Chrysler dealership as soon as possible. They need to diagnose the source of the oil loss. This will involve a thorough inspection for external leaks and potentially an oil consumption test to confirm internal burning. They can also check the oil pressure sensor (P0520 is a common code if the sensor itself is faulty, but your symptoms point to actual low pressure). Ignoring this could lead to a very expensive engine repair or replacement.
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