🧭 ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION: CAUSES, SOLUTIONS AND HOW TO USE BARDAHL B2 ADDITIVE
An engine that consumes too much oil isn't always a bad idea. Often, the right lubricant and an effective additive are enough to reduce leaks, improve gasket sealing, and restore performance.
BARDAHL B2 – OIL ADDITIVE 300ml
Universal oil additive for petrol and diesel engines . Reduces wear and oil consumption, improves compression and engine performance, and ensures greater protection over time.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon⚙️ Why does the engine consume oil?
Slight oil consumption is normal: many engines, especially those above 100,000 km , can consume as little as 0.5 L/1,000 km without any noticeable damage. Higher values require attention.
- Wear of piston rings/valve guides: leakage in combustion chamber → blue smoke.
- Hardened gaskets: leaking oil seal or valve cover.
- Frequent DPF regenerations (diesel): oil dilution and volatilization.
- Non-compliant oil: ACEA/API grade or specifications not suitable.
First step: check for external leaks, turbo oil intake, and sludge buildup. Then choose the right oil and additives.
🛢️ Which oil to use if the car consumes oil
If the engine "drinks" oil, aim to reduce evaporation and improve sealing . In many cases, a more "robust" grade is useful.
🔧 Recommended (indicative) grades
| Engine type | Suggested oil | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Petrol mileage / light leaks | 10W-40 or 15W-40 | Thicker film, less evaporation |
| Diesel with obvious consumption | 15W-40 or 20W-50 | Increased high temperature protection |
| Recent engines (moderate consumption) | 5W-40 (instead of 5W-30 where possible) | Compromise between cold fluidity and hot sealing |
Note: Always follow the manufacturer's specifications (ACEA/API/OEM approvals). Excessively thick oil can impair cold starting and poor lubrication.
🧴 Bardahl B2: How it works, when to use it, and why it's so effective
Bardahl B2 is an oil treatment designed for engines showing oil consumption , smoke, or slight loss of compression. It's not a "stopgap": it acts on friction, wear, and gasket sealing , helping to stabilize combustion and reduce top-ups between services.
⚙️ Mechanism of action (in simple words)
- High-strength protective film: creates a persistent lubricating film on internal surfaces (pistons, piston rings, cylinders) that reduces metal-to-metal contact.
- More stable viscosity when hot: helps the oil to better “withstand” high temperatures and loads, limiting the passage into the combustion chamber.
- More elastic seals: elasticizing components help regenerate oil seals and gaskets that have hardened over time, reducing external micro-leaks.
- Smoother compression: By improving mechanical seal, the engine runs smoother and is often quieter.
- Against sludge and oxidation: helps keep the oil “cleaner” and its viscosity more constant over time.
⏱️ When and how to use it
To maximize the benefits, follow the correct timing and doses.
| Situation | What to do | Technical notes |
|---|---|---|
| Right after the oil change (ideal scenario) | Add B2 with the engine warm (but off) and take a short ride of 10–15 km. | It works on clean oil, maximum effectiveness throughout the entire interval. |
| Moderate consumption between services | Integrate B2 as an intermediate treatment . | Check the level after 200–300 km and then every 1,000 km. |
| Large displacement engines / oil > 5 L | Adjust the quantity in proportion to the volume of oil. | Keep the percentages within the limits indicated on the label. |
📏 Dosage and timing
- Recommended dosage: ~ 5–10% of the total oil volume (e.g., 150–300 ml in 5 L). Always check the instructions on the bottle.
- Compatibility: can be used with mineral, semi-synthetic and synthetic oils, on petrol, diesel and LPG engines.
- Response times: the first effects (less frequent top-ups, smoother engine) generally appear after 500–1,000 km .
🧰 Step-by-step procedure (from the workshop)
- Bring the engine to operating temperature and turn it off on a level surface.
- Shake the bottle, slowly pour the additive into the oil cap.
- Wait 1–2 minutes, then start the engine and let it idle for 2–3 minutes.
- Do a 10–15 km ride to promote even distribution.
- Check the level after 200–300 km and top up if necessary.
⚠️ Important warnings
- It does not replace mechanical repairs: if consumption exceeds 1 L/1,000 km , diagnosis is required (rings, valve guides, turbo, oil seals).
- Meets OEM specifications: Oil grade must be compatible with ACEA/API and manufacturer approvals.
- Do not exceed the dosage: too high percentages can alter the properties of the lubricant.
- If you have obvious leaks from the oil seals or sump, first fix the leak, then evaluate the treatment.
🧠 Field experience
From the diagnoses we carry out in the workshop, in cases of moderate consumption, B2 often reduces the need for top-ups already at the first treatment. In more marked cases, it works well in combination with a more “robust” oil (e.g. switching from 5W-30 to 5W-40, if permitted by the OEM) and a gasket check .
🔍 Other useful additives
- Bardahl No Smoke: Increases instant viscosity, reduces blue exhaust smoke.
- Arexons Internal Engine Cleaner: to be used before changing the oil to remove sludge.
- Oil seal/gasket sealants: suitable for external micro-leaks.
⚠️ When oil consumption hides a problem
The additive helps, but it's no substitute for diagnosis. Visit a garage if:
- the level drops by > 1 L every 1000 km ;
- blue smoke or a burning smell appears from the exhaust;
- you find oil in the intake or abnormal clearance in the turbo;
- see major leaks from oil seals/covers.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use Bardahl B2 in any engine?
Yes, it is compatible with gasoline and diesel engines, both naturally aspirated and turbocharged, with both mineral and synthetic oils. Always check the instructions on the label.
When will I see results?
Typically, between 500 and 1000 km you will notice a reduction in the need for top-ups and quieter operation.
Is it needed in new engines?
It's not necessary for new or low-mileage engines. It's useful for engines with high mileage or with slight abnormal wear/consumption.
Can I switch to a thicker oil?
In many cases, yes, but only if the manufacturer's technical data sheet allows it. It complies with ACEA/API specifications and OEM approvals.
📦 Recommended products
BARDAHL – NO SMOKE TREATMENT 473ml
A gasoline and diesel engine oil additive that increases viscosity and reduces oil consumption. It reduces exhaust smoke, cleans spark plugs, and improves engine power.
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LIQUI MOLY PRO-LINE – ENGINE WASH 500ml (SKU: 2427)
Professional cleaning additive for the engine oil system. Dissolves sludge and residue, improving lubrication and extending engine life before oil changes.
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BARDAHL K9 – MULTIFUNCTIONAL LUBRICANT 400ml
Multi-purpose anti-rust and anti-corrosion lubricant spray. Eliminates squeaks and noises, protects doors, locks, hinges, and metal components from wear and rust.
🛒 Buy now on Amazon🏁 Conclusions
Combining the right grade of oil with Bardahl B2 additives is a practical solution for reducing oil consumption and extending engine life. If consumption persists or significant symptoms appear, a professional diagnosis is necessary to rule out structural problems.
Have questions about your engine? Contact us: we'll help you find the right oil and additives for your vehicle.
2 comments
Efisio
Salve ho fiesta 1.4 tdci fuma molto e vuole 1 litro olio ogni 2500km, che olio gli metto?
antonio
Buonasera, sono capitato sul suo sito facendo una ricerca. Vengo al sodo : motore a benzina 4cilindri con gpl che consuma olio, diciamo un litro e mezzo ogni 10mila km. Le candele sono pulite, non fuma, non ha altre perdite, presumo che siano i gommini delle valvole, se non i guidavalvole… utilizzo ai cambi d’olio il Bardahl LongLife ( fullerene) ,quale altro adittivo mi potete consigliare per ridurre il consumo?