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We have a 1988 Toyota Corolla Liftback that has travelled 166,000kms and was regularly serviced for its first 10 years.

The engine is smoking and has failed a Warrant of Fitness.

it doesn't appear to burn excessive oil, we have only added two litres of oil in 18 months.

The car sits for a month at a time with no driving, so I wondered if this could contribute to the problem.

Any idea's.

Sharon

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 23 April 2010

Changing the oil and filter is the best you can do without getting involved in a engine strip down.

Adding a high viscosity oil may also be helpful.

Castrol do a oil called GTX which is manufactured for older vehicles and claims to help control oil consumption.

Make sure the engine has warmed up before draining the existing oil and take it for a good run once the change has taken place.

Don't be afraid to work the engine quite hard as the oil control rings may need to be 'worked' a little if this exercise is going to work.

Certainly worth a go.