Ever wonder why engines have that long wiry thing with the small plastic handle? A.K.A. the dipstick? “Come on, Mark, it’s for measuring proper engine oil volume,” you say.
The simple answer: It’s probably wearing out. Over time, the piston rings have likely become worn or stuck in their grooves, preventing them from sealing tightly against the cylinder wall.
Everyone who owns a vehicle knows you need to regularly check the oil level. (Note: If you do not know this, you’d better go check your oil.) A certain amount of oil loss is normal due to motor oil volatility – that is, boil-off due to the high-heat conditions inside an engine. I once attended