Jeep Renegade Burning Oil? Diagnosing and Fixing Oil Consumption

Have you noticed your Jeep Renegade seems to be going through oil quickly? Does the low oil pressure light come on between oil changes? You’re not alone – many Renegade owners report problems with high oil consumption. This article dives into the oil burning issues on Jeep’s popular subcompact SUV and provides tips for diagnosing and addressing the problem.

The Jeep Renegade is a relatively new model, first introduced for the 2015 model year. As Jeep’s first subcompact crossover SUV, built in Italy, the Renegade has proven popular with urban drivers. Under the hood, Renegades have either a 2.4L Tigershark 4-cylinder engine or a 1.3L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. These small displacement engines are powerful and fuel efficient. However, some drivers have experienced excessive oil consumption, with the Renegade burning through oil at a much faster rate than expected.

What Causes Renegades to Burn Oil?

There are a few potential causes of oil consumption in the Jeep Renegade:

• Worn piston rings or valve seals – The piston rings and valve seals are meant to tightly seal the combustion chamber, but wear over time. This can allow oil to be sucked into the cylinders and burned along with fuel. Renegade owners have reported replacing piston rings and valve stem seals to reduce oil use.
• High temperatures – The small engines can run hot, especially under load or in warm climates. This heat can thin oil and increase oil consumption.
• Faster wear on new vehicles – In the first several thousand miles, the piston rings seat to the cylinder walls. More oil use is expected during this break-in period. But abnormal consumption points to an issue.
• Oil viscosity – Using the manufacturer recommended oil provides optimal performance and fuel economy. However, thinner oils like 0W-20 (for the 1.3L engine) or 5W-20 (for the 2.4L engine) may provide less protection against oil burning versus thicker oils like 5W-30 or 10W-30.
• Oil quality – Poor quality or contaminated oil can increase wear and oil consumption over time. Always use high-quality synthetic oil. Also, be aware of the possibility of oil dilution by fuel due to the direct injection system. This can also affect oil quality and consumption.
• Driving habits – Aggressive acceleration and driving can increase oil use. Allowing proper warm up and easy break in helps.

So in summary, the most common causes of excessive Renegade oil consumption appear to be worn valve stem seals and piston rings, the small engine capacity, thinner oil viscosity, oil quality and dilution, and driving habits. Manufacturing defects could also play a role in some cases. Next, we’ll look at how much oil burn is normal.

What Rate of Oil Consumption is Considered Normal?

What is considered an acceptable amount of oil consumption in the Jeep Renegade? Here are some general guidelines:

• Up to 1 quart of oil every 1000-2000 miles may be acceptable depending on driving conditions
• Burning 1 quart every 500-1000 miles is likely indication of a problem
• Any significant oil loss in the first 10,000 miles on a new Renegade is abnormal and should be addressed

The 2018 Jeep Renegade service manual states that oil consumption of up to 1 quart every 2000 miles after the break in period is normal. However, many Renegade owners report burning 1 quart every 1000 miles or less. This points to an issue with oil control in many of the 2.4L engines.

How Do You Diagnose An Oil Consumption Problem?

If you suspect your Jeep Renegade has an oil consumption problem, here are some tips for diagnosis:

• Frequently check the oil level – monitor oil levels closely to determine rate of consumption. Don’t let it get too low between changes.
• Look for oil leaks – inspect under the engine and around gaskets/seals for any sign of external leaks.
• Consider an oil consumption test – this may be done at a Jeep dealership to accurately measure oil use over several thousand miles.
• Note changes after oil change – try switching oil brand/weight and driving habits to see impact on consumption.
• Watch for engine noises– lifter tick or rattling can signal low oil pressure.
• Review service records – oil use history and services can help identify when the issue started.

Don’t ignore symptoms of excessive Renegade oil consumption – address it promptly to avoid further engine wear. Next we’ll go over some solutions.

What Are Potential Fixes For Renegade Oil Burning?

If your Jeep Renegade is burning through oil at a high rate, here are some potential fixes:

• Replace valve stem seals – worn seals are a common cause of oil loss into the combustion chamber. Expect a repair cost around $1000-1500.
• Replace piston rings– oil control piston rings may need replacement, around $2000 total with labor.
• Short block or engine replacement – for extensive wear a new short block or complete new engine may be needed. A costly repair averaging $4000-$6000.
• Adjust driving habits – avoid heavy acceleration and let engine properly warm up to reduce oil thinning.
• Switch to thicker oil – using 5W-30 may help slow consumption in some cases.
• Add oil catch can – an oil catch can helps recirculate fumes back into the engine to reduce oil loss.
• Repairs covered under warranty – oil consumption repairs may be covered by the powertrain warranty or an extended warranty. Some vehicles may also qualify for a warranty extension to seven years or 100,000 miles for vehicles with excessive oil consumption.

Ideally, oil burning issues should be addressed while still under the new car warranty. Repairs can run thousands out of warranty. Let’s look at any recommended fixes from Jeep.

Does Jeep Recommend Anything for Excessive Oil Consumption?

Jeep does not openly acknowledge an inherent oil consumption problem in the 2.4L Renegade engine. But they do provide some recommendations:

• Use only the recommended 0W-20 oil – thicker oil may increase consumption.
• Follow the scheduled maintenance – don’t skimp on oil changes.
• Allow for a break-in period – some oil use in new engines is normal.
• Significant consumption is not acceptable – have dealership diagnose and address oil loss over 1 quart per 1000 miles.

Additionally, Jeep has issued a technical service bulletin for 2018 models related to oil consumption:

• TSB 23-017-18 revised May 2021 – covers excessive oil consumption related to piston ring wear. The fix involves piston ring replacement under warranty.
• This bulletin indicates Jeep is aware of oil burning issues in the Renegade, though no recalls have been issued. If you have a 2018, refer to this TSB when working with your dealer to resolve excessive oil use.

What Do Jeep Renegade Owners Recommend For Oil Consumption?

On Renegade owner forums and groups, many drivers discuss dealing with oil burn and provide tips:

• Check oil level frequently and top off as needed. Never let it get dangerously low.
• Use only synthetic or high quality oil – this provides extra protection.
• Try a thicker oil such as 5W-30 – this may slow consumption.
• Add an oil catch can to recirculate oil vapor back into the engine instead of burning it.
• Adjust driving style to be smoother and easier on the engine.
• Don’t ignore any check engine lights related to low oil pressure.

While no fix completely resolves the issue, attentive oil monitoring and top-offs can mitigate it. But excessive burning should still be addressed.

How Much Does It Cost To Repair Oil Consumption Problems?

As mentioned before, repairs for oil burning issues can be expensive, often ranging from $1000 for valve work up to several thousand for engine replacement:

• Valve stem seal replacement – approximately $1000-$1500
• Piston ring replacement – around $2000, more with labor
• Short block (partial engine) – $3500-$4500
• Complete new crate engine – $4000-$6000

These estimates can vary widely by mechanic and location. And costs quickly add up if additional engine repairs are needed.

Unfortunately repairs to fix oil consumption are generally not covered under the Jeep powertrain warranty. An extended warranty or added protection may help cover repairs. However, the warranty coverage may depend on the cause and severity of the oil consumption problem, and the dealer and Jeep’s discretion .

How Much Does it Cost to Repair Oil Consumption Problems?

As mentioned before, repairs for oil burning issues can be expensive, often ranging from $1000 for valve work up to several thousand for engine replacement:

• Valve stem seal replacement – approximately $1000-$1500
• Piston ring replacement – around $2000, more with labor
• Short block (partial engine) – $3500-$4500
• Complete new crate engine – $4000-$6000

These estimates can vary widely by mechanic and location. And costs quickly add up if additional engine repairs are needed.

Unfortunately repairs to fix oil consumption are generally not covered under the Jeep powertrain warranty. An extended warranty or added protection may help cover repairs.

Should I Still Buy A Jeep Renegade?

The majority of Jeep Renegades are solid, reliable vehicles. And many owners encounter no oil consumption issues. But it’s important to be aware of the potential for oil burning. Here are some tips if you’re considering a Renegade purchase:

• Test drive and inspect carefully for any engine noises or oil leaks. Walk away from any deal on a Renegade with existing mechanical issues.
• Consider an extended warranty for peace of mind – it may pay for itself if major repairs are needed.
• Check oil levels religiously – don’t allow it to get low before your next change.
• Compare to other small SUV options like the Honda HR-V or Subaru Crosstrek that have better reliability ratings.

While most Renegades won’t have excessive oil consumption, it’s smart to go in with eyes wide open. Don’t ignore warning signs of potential issues.

Conclusion – Key Takeaways On Jeep Renegade Oil Consumption

Oil burning in the Jeep Renegade, especially models with the 2.4L engine, is a fairly common problem. Here are some final tips:

• Monitor oil levels frequently – don’t allow it to get dangerously low. Top off as needed between changes.
• Use quality synthetic oil and change on schedule. Consider a thicker oil to reduce consumption.
• Have any severe oil loss diagnosed and addressed promptly. Look into seals, piston rings, etc.
• Cite Jeep TSB 23-017-18 for 2018 models when working with your dealer on excessive consumption issues.
• Consider an extended warranty for potential engine repairs. Out of warranty engine work is very costly.
• Don’t ignore symptoms of oil burning or mechanical problems. Address it quickly to prevent further damage.

While inconvenient, staying on top of oil levels and consumption in the Renegade can help you spot issues early and prevent extensive repairs down the road. With diligent maintenance and care, a Jeep Renegade can still be a fun, fuel efficient ride for years to come.

Hopefully this overview gives Renegade owners more insight into what causes oil burning, how to diagnose it, potential fixes, and maintaining your Jeep despite the issue. Don’t hesitate to comment below with your own Renegade’s oil consumption story and tips!