Expert: Sean Halliday - 9/14/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have a 2002 Mitsubishi. Montero Sport that I bought in March of 09. I haven't really had any problems except replacing the accelerator about 2 months ago. However I have always noticed having to top off my oil in between oil changes. Like I put 2 quarts in it after just 1500 miles after the oil change. Also I have just sometimes noticed it sputters after taken off. But it does smoke when sitting still basically when the car is just idol. It is 2wd and has around 170,000 miles on it. What is wrong? Does something just need to be replaced or is it major?

ANSWER: What color is the smoke?White is normal,condensation,if it is blue then the valve stem oil seals may be worn.Two qts per 1500 miles is ok.Most cars do use oil (with high mileage).

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QUESTION: The smoke is white and what about the sputtering after I take off from work or after I it has sat for hours.Could it just need new spark plugs? And so you don't thank I have an oil leak.    Thanks a bunch Amber

Answer
Possible leak at the intake manifold will cause white smoke and sputtering.White smoke would mean coolant burning.With the high mileage it may also be a leaking head gasket.To determine this,you would need to check compression and perform a leak down test.This can only be done with compressed air.Look at your plugs also,white in color is definatly burnt coolant,normal color will be brown.