Engine oil smells like gas....

[maestro]

It seems to at least....I am using Mobil 1 synthetic (5W-30) and only have 4,000 miles on my truck. The oil was changed roughly 1,000 miles ago. Has anyone experienced this in their Titan?

[raskm]

How far do you drive each day? Do you let it idle for long periods of time?

[maestro]

I drive roughly 40 miles a day with no unusual amount of idling. Im sure that this thing can't have such a huge problem already. It just seems that the oil is more acrid smelling than usual. Maybe its the "new car jitters" thing..

[raskm]

I would not worry UNLESS it was a strong gas smell. If you are worried take to dealer or get an Oil Analysis.

[Clint]

I personally have never used synthetic oil. Is this your first experience with it? Could it be possible that this happens to be normal? My guess is nothing is wrong, it's just the way it's suposed to be...

Clint

[TYTAIN]

Originally Posted by raskm

I would not worry UNLESS it was a strong gas smell. If you are worried take to dealer or get an Oil Analysis.

I would do oil analysis, for your piece of mind, and proof to your dealer if it does. You know what type things happen at the stealership don't we! Hope it dosen't have fuel in the oil, but good luck!!!!!!!!!!!!

[NorCal 4x4]

I agree with Ray the oil guy.
You might also compare the odor of the used vs. new. If different mix a drop of gas in with a small amount of the new and see if it resembles the used. [Don't sniff it too much or you might become just another strange headline in the local paper].

[sgbofav]

Oil smell and color are not accurate to determine an oil's ability to lubricate. Like others have said, "when in doubt, do a UOA" Used Oil Analysis.

[HemiHunter]

I never thought I would actually go outside and smell my oil, but after reading your post I did. I too use Mobil 1. It has a petroleum distillate smell close to gasoline. Not sure if it's normal or not, but it's clean and my truck runs fine.

[raskm]

Some older engines can pass fuel through worn or broken rings and can actually thin the oil....This will be a strong fuel smell. Correct me if I am wrong as I can say I am an expert becuase I have only read about this problem on the Toyota boards..

[TOK]

If there is enough fuel getting past the rings that you smell it, is it possible there is enough in there to have it burn on the dipstick? Not highly scientific, but a lot quicker than an oil anaylisis. I wouldn't be comfortable driving a truck that I thought had diluted oil while I waited for the results.

My gut tells me everything is OK, and you're just being a little worried about problems with such a large investment. Wouldn't a ring leaking bad enough to be contaminating the oil be triggereing a misfire or lean condition and lighting the Service Engine light?

[Squid]

Originally Posted by HemiHunter

I never thought I would actually go outside and smell my oil, but after reading your post I did.

Never have, and I'm not going to start.
What next taste the diff lube?
Or put your tounge on the spark plug wire to see if it's firing?