FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2026 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander consuming more oil than usual? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander consuming more oil than usual?

Why is my 2020 Toyota Highlander consuming more oil than usual?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
632 words

Problem Statement

Learn about the symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions for excessive oil consumption in the 2020 Toyota Highlander.

Affected Component
engine

Symptoms

  • •Low oil level warning light on the dashboard.
  • •Oil spots on the garage floor or parking area.
  • •Increased frequency of oil changes needed.
  • •Engine noise due to insufficient lubrication.
  • •Exhaust smoke (blue) during acceleration.

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Flashlight
  • •oil dipstick
  • •clean rag
  • •compression gauge
  • •wrench set
  • •screwdriver set
  • •vacuum gauge (optional)
  • •clean container for oil sample
  • •wrench set
  • •gasket set
  • •oil filter wrench
  • •new PCV valve
  • •socket set
  • •engine rebuild kit (if necessary)
  • •ring compressor
  • •torque wrench
  • •oil change kit (oil, filter, wrench)

Additional Information

Affected Component
engine
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
17 items

Related Faults

Loading...

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation
Problem: Excessive Oil Consumption in 2020 Toyota Highlander
Step 1: Visual Inspection
  • Tools Required: Flashlight, oil dipstick, clean rag.
  • Procedure:
    1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
    2. Open the hood and inspect the engine bay for visible oil leaks.
    3. Check around the oil pan, valve cover gasket, and oil filter for signs of oil seepage.
    4. Using the dipstick, check the current oil level. If it is below the "add" mark, this indicates oil consumption.

Step 2: Check for Exhaust Smoke

  • Tools Required: N/A
  • Procedure:
    1. Start the engine and allow it to idle.
    2. Observe the exhaust. If blue smoke is emitted, this indicates that oil is burning in the combustion chamber.

Step 3: Perform a Compression Test

  • Tools Required: Compression gauge, wrench set.
  • Procedure:
    1. Remove the spark plugs using a spark plug socket.
    2. Insert the compression gauge into the spark plug hole.
    3. Crank the engine for a few seconds and record the pressure reading.
    4. Repeat for all cylinders. A significant variation in readings (more than 10% difference) may indicate worn piston rings or cylinder walls.

Step 4: Inspect PCV System

  • Tools Required: Screwdriver set, vacuum gauge (optional).
  • Procedure:
    1. Locate the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) valve, typically near the valve cover.
    2. Remove the PCV valve and inspect it for clogs or blockages.
    3. Shake the valve; it should rattle. If it doesn’t, replace it.
    4. If you have a vacuum gauge, check for proper vacuum at the PCV hose while the engine is running.

Step 5: Check Oil Quality

  • Tools Required: Clean container for oil sample.
  • Procedure:
    1. Using the dipstick, take a sample of the oil.
    2. Inspect the oil's color and consistency. If it appears milky or has a burnt smell, it may indicate coolant entering the oil or overheating issues.
Repair Instructions

Repair 1: Addressing Oil Leaks

  • Tools Required: Wrench set, gasket set, oil filter wrench.
  • Procedure:
    1. If leaks are found around the oil pan or valve cover, replace the gaskets.
    2. Remove the old gasket material by scraping it off the surfaces.
    3. Apply a new gasket or sealant according to manufacturer specifications.
    4. Reassemble and torque bolts to the specified settings.

Repair 2: Replacing PCV Valve

  • Tools Required: New PCV valve, socket set.
  • Procedure:
    1. Remove the old PCV valve from its housing.
    2. Install the new PCV valve securely.
    3. Reattach any hoses or clamps.

Repair 3: Addressing Engine Wear

  • Tools Required: Engine rebuild kit (if necessary), ring compressor, torque wrench.
  • Procedure:
    1. If compression tests indicate worn piston rings, an engine rebuild may be necessary.
    2. Remove the engine from the vehicle following manufacturer specifications.
    3. Disassemble the engine, replacing piston rings and any other worn components.
    4. Reassemble the engine and reinstall it in the vehicle.

Repair 4: Regular Maintenance

  • Tools Required: Oil change kit (oil, filter, wrench).
  • Procedure:
    1. Change the engine oil and filter at recommended intervals.
    2. Use high-quality synthetic oil recommended for your engine to reduce consumption.
Conclusion

If the steps above do not resolve the oil consumption issue, it may be advisable to seek professional assistance from a certified Toyota technician, as there could be underlying issues that require specialized equipment and expertise. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent such issues from developing in the future.