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2019 Terrain Denali 1.5L Turbo - Burning Oil and Low Level Warnings

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Brian F. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:48 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2019 GMC Terrain Denali

Hello everyone,

I own a 2019 GMC Terrain Denali with the 1.5L turbocharged engine. For the past few months, I've been getting 'low oil level' warnings on my dash, even though I'm diligent about oil changes. I've had to add a quart or more between changes, and I'm only driving about 3,000-4,000 miles between services. I also sometimes catch a faint burning oil smell.

This seems excessive for a relatively new vehicle. Is this a known issue with the 1.5L turbo engine in the Terrain? What could be causing this, and what are my options? I'm concerned about engine longevity if it's burning this much oil.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:48 AM

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Hi Jessica,

Excessive oil consumption in the 1.5L turbocharged engine (LYX) found in your 2019 GMC Terrain Denali is a concern that has been reported by some owners. While a small amount of oil consumption is normal for any engine, needing to add a quart or more between regular oil change intervals (especially at 3,000-4,000 miles) is generally considered excessive.

Here's what you should investigate:

  1. Common Causes of Oil Consumption:

    • PCV System Issues: A clogged or malfunctioning Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can lead to increased crankcase pressure, forcing oil past piston rings or valve seals.
    • Turbocharger Seals: The turbocharger operates at high temperatures and speeds. Worn or failing seals within the turbo can allow oil to leak into the exhaust or intake.
    • Piston Rings/Valve Seals: In some cases, manufacturing defects or premature wear of piston rings or valve stem seals can lead to oil entering the combustion chamber.
    • Oil Leaks: While you mentioned a burning smell, which suggests internal consumption, always check for external leaks around the engine, oil pan, and valve cover gaskets.

  2. Diagnostic Steps & Solutions:

    • Oil Consumption Test: The first step a dealership will likely perform is an official oil consumption test. This involves draining and refilling the oil, sealing the drain plug, and having you return after a specified mileage (e.g., 1,000-1,500 miles) to measure the exact amount of oil consumed.
    • PCV System Inspection: Have the PCV valve and associated hoses inspected for clogs or damage.
    • Turbocharger Inspection: The turbocharger should be inspected for signs of oil leakage or excessive shaft play.
    • Engine Diagnostics: While not always directly related to oil consumption, a check engine light could appear with codes like P0300 (Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected) or P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) if oil burning is severe enough to foul spark plugs or damage the catalytic converter.

  3. When to See a Shop:

    • You should schedule an appointment with your GMC dealership immediately. Document how much oil you've added and when.
    • Since your vehicle is a 2019 model, it may still be under the powertrain warranty (typically 5 years/60,000 miles), which would cover significant engine repairs related to excessive oil consumption if a defect is found.
    • Ignoring excessive oil consumption can lead to serious engine damage, including premature wear of internal components, catalytic converter failure, and potential engine seizure due to critically low oil levels.
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