I have a 2008 equinox 3.4L bought 4 years ago at 142k kms. I dutifully replace the oil every 6k with synthetic oil, (pennzoil high mileage)I have noticed that I have to top up quite a bit during the course of 6k.~ 3L. I also use gum out high mileage fuel system cleaner before each oil change.

I’ve noticed No black smoke, no sluggish performance and good fuel consumption. 12l -100 kms mixed driving.

Where does this oil go?

 

You must have a leak. These 3.4L engines don't commonly burn/consume oil.

 

what do the plugs look like. any ash deposits?

 

Ruley73: In the 2 years that I have owned the car not a drop on the driveway

tech2: I changed the plugs when I bought the car at 140k and they were clean. haven’t checked after. Car starts at the first crank- winter and summer.

 

A gummed up PCV valve could also cause excessive oil consumption. The PCV valve isn't serviceable and requires replacing the left/front valve cover. You can try disconnecting the hose that goes to the PCV valve and spraying some brake cleaner into it to free it up. As long as you don't use an excessive amount of brake cleaner, it won't hurt anything and changing the oil afterwards isn't required. I'd also perform a visual inspection of the engine if you haven't already done so. Our Equinox has a slow leak, but also never leaves any oil on the garage floor. I usually don't need to add oil between oil changes.

 

I read a thread on redflagdeals this afternoon that the difference between the top marker and the bottom marker of the dipstick is 500-1000 ml. Is this true for the equinox. I may have to reevaluate the high oil consumption theory.