Massive amount of oil smoke when accelerating 2-3rd gear

EDWARDSWARTHOUT

MEMBER
2007 TOYOTA SIENNA
3.5L
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
170,000 MILES

Normally my sienna runs fine, no sign of burning oil, but when I stop to say fill up, or overnight, or even sitting at idle for 3-5 minutes when I go to accelerate and I am shifting through the low gears, a very large puff of burning oil smoke can be seen from the exhaust. Check engine light indicates catalytic is showing problems which seems normal for the amount of smoke.

3 Replies

HMAC300

MECHANIC
48,601 POSTS

Have a pro check for bad valve seals with the amount of mileage it wouldn't be wrong to say they are worn out. From your description it kind of sounds like it and if you are getting a cat code then that is probably shot as well due to oil burning. It could also be ahead gasket leaking oil into cylinder

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Sunday, February 8th, 2015 AT 10:33 AM

FREEMBA

MECHANIC
1,152 POSTS

Your symptoms indicate bad valve seals. There is no real test to check to see if this is indeed the problem. However, the vehicle seems to be displaying classic signs of a valve seal problem. It could be caused by the seals themselves becoming hard and brittle over time or by worn valve guides (the part of the cylinder head that the valve fits through).
You should call around to find a shop which could do this repair for a "reasonable" price.

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Sunday, February 8th, 2015 AT 10:47 AM

EDWARDSWARTHOUT

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Thanks guys, Your answer makes sense. I just purchased the vehicle, and I am wondering how they kept this from showing up while test driving it. I started after 100 mi. I am livid to say the least. I got the vehicle for a good price though, so if I can replace the valve seals for a decent price, I guess I'll be ok with it. Rest of van is in top notch running condition. Thanks.

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Sunday, February 8th, 2015 AT 10:58 AM