PIP5025F

Bulletin No.: PIP5025F
Date: Apr-2013
Subject:
Excessive Oil Consumption - Install Updated ECM Calibration and Perform Oil Consumption Test
Models:
2010-2011 Buick Lacrosse
2011 Buick Regal
2010-2011 Chevrolet Equinox
2010-2011 GMC Terrain
with 2.4L Engine (RPO LAF)
This PI was superseded to update admin details and add warranty information. Please discard PIP5025E.
The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.
Condition/Concern
Some customers may complain of excessive oil consumption and/or that they have to add oil between oil changes.
Recommendation/Instructions
If this complaint is encountered, perform an oil consumption test by following the latest version of bulletin 01-06-01-011. Before starting the oil consumption
test, reprogram the ECM with the latest TIS2web calibrations to adjust the engine oil life monitor to a maximum of 7,500 miles (12,070 KM), inspect for any
obvious oil leaks that may explain the oil consumption complaint, and repair as necessary.
Important: When checking the oil level with the oil dipstick design shown below, please note that the oil volume per notch is not linear due to the shape of the
block. The upper notches (relative to the top of the handle) equal .24 quart (.227 L) between each notch while the lower notches only equal .14 quart (.132 L)
between each notch. As a result, no oil will appear on the dipstick if it is low on oil by approximately 1.25 quarts (1.18L) or more. When determining the oil
consumption rate, the oil volume added to return it to the starting location is the total amount of oil consumed. The consumption rate must be documented on a
repair order.
If the oil consumption test indicates that the rate of consumption is greater than 1 quart (.946 L) of oil every 2,000 miles (3,200 KM) and there are no obvious oil
leaks that would explain the excessive oil consumption complaint, this is most likely the result of a ring sealing concern due to worn piston ring lands and rings.
As a result, a detailed service procedure is being developed and will be published in a separate bulletin/PI once sufficient parts are available in CCA parts stock
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to support the upcoming service procedure.
In the meantime, engine replacement is suggested so it is important to note the oil consumption rate, the date that the ECM was reprogrammed, results of the oil
leak inspection, and any other repairs/diagnosis that you have performed on the repair order. It is no longer necessary to disassemble the engine to inspect for
"zebra" striped cylinder walls as this PI had suggested several months/versions ago. After careful evaluation, GM Powertrain has determined that the "zebra"
striped cylinder wall appearance that was previously referenced does not affect ring sealing. Dealers who are required to contact PQC for engine replacement
authorization should also call PQC with this PI number, the engine unit numbers, and engine replacement cost as outlined in the latest version of 02-07-30-029
to determine if engine replacement is required. The engine unit numbers should be located on a white bar code sticker on the front of the engine and/or
stamped near the engine oil filter.
Important: If engine replacement is required, it may or may not be necessary to swap/replace the intake camshaft and intake camshaft actuator sprocket on
2010 models depending on the engine part number received. As a result, it is suggested to review the latest version of PI0865 and/or follow the related
instruction sheet that should be attached to the engine crate to determine if additional parts need to be installed or swapped from the original engine to the
replacement engine before it is installed. To complete the repairs, ensure that the latest ECM calibrations have been installed to adjust the engine oil life monitor
to a maximum of 7,500 miles (12,070 KM) as well.
Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty use:
Labor Operation
Description
Labor Time
J6350
Engine Control Module Reprogramming with SPS
Use Published Labor Operation Time
J1840
Engine Replacement
Use Published Labor Operation Time
Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the
remaining steps do not need to be performed.
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions that may
occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the equipment, tools,
safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin applies to your vehicle, or that
your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the information.
WE SUPPORT VOLUNTARY TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATION
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