The contact owns a 2000 Chevrolet Prizm. The vehicle began burning a quart of oil per month and currently uses three quarts of oil per week. When diagnostic tests were initially performed, the results indicated that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle. The lines were tested and the results indicated that there were no leaks and the pressure was normal. Currently, a mechanic has concluded that the oil ring in the engine needs to be replaced, which would cost $2,000 - $3,000. The purchase date was unknown. The current mileage was 104,000 and failure mileage was 74,000.

- Hamilton Square, NJ, USA

Spring 2004, oil change mechanic noticed excessive sludge (appx 65000 miles on car). Cleaned engine out, changed oil (car has had regular oil changes every 3-4K miles). After that car was noted to be using too much oil (topping off at each 1500 miles they had to add 2 and a half quarts). Took to dealer at about 67000 noting oil problem and check engine light. Light turned out to be a catalytic converter problem. Replaced. Nothing done on oil problem. At 70000 miles engine was hesitating and continuing to burn oil. Took back to dealer. Charged me for new spark plugs first then found other problems (believe it was air flow sensor.) at 72,000, took back to dealer for excessive oil use. Changed oil and told me to come back when it had burned a quart. On the way home from dealer, engine blew up. Under GM extended warranty, lower half of engine replaced. Three weeks after it was repaired (which took a month) transmission died. Replaced tranny under warranty. Apparently I'm lucky it was under the Chevy name and not Toyota, but same problem is noted on a number of those.

- Walworth, NY, USA