Last night my car started making a weird sound, almost as if something was loose, only lasted a minute or so then disappeared. Went to start my car this morning, and once again a noise started. My car has a tendency to burn oil fast, usually changing it every 2-3 months or so (roughly ever 2000-3000 miles), so I already kinda figured it'd be the piston rings, but figured I'd get through this coming winter before buying a new car (I've had tons of issues). Opened up the hood, checked my dipstick and it was dry. My driveway is at an incline, so i pulled it out to a flatter surface, same thing. While engine was idling, small amount of white smoke were coming out from the dipstick too (also took of my oil cap and a little bit was coming from there too, both not major amounts though). I changed my oil a month ago (5 quarts), so this is really early compared to previous times, but from what i'm reading through forums is my piston rings could be shot. Again, what i figured but that just means it's getting worse. Anyone who can back this idea up or offer another possibility? If i can do it myself, less money to spend, but my tools are limited and if it is my piston rings, that i cannot do myself.
Car: 2007 Chevy Malibu LS 2.2L 4cyl

 

cars burning oil typically show blue smoke. try running a heavier weight oil. no sense in rebuilding a car you are replacing. get into a routine to check the oil level at every fuel fill up. don't let the oil get low...2.2 ecotec engines use oil pressure to tension the timing chain tensioner...loose chain =engine destruction.