Few car owners want to think about an engine replacement, but for drivers of certain Jeep Renegade and Kia models, it may become necessary. Both have documented histories of burning oil faster than expected: the Jeep’s 2.4-liter Tigershark engine due to piston ring wear, and Kia’s Theta II engine due to connecting rod bearing failures that can lead to knocking or complete engine seizure.

The challenge is that symptoms alone aren’t enough to trigger a repair under warranty. Dealers and extended warranty providers require documented proof—and that process starts with an oil consumption test.

Why These Two Models Surface Together

At first glance, vehicles like the Jeep Renegade and the Kia Sportage don’t have much in common beyond five doors and compact size. Yet both models (along with other Kias) equipped with certain engines have been associated with oil-related issues. They share a similar engine-related concern.

The Jeep side of the conversation focuses on the 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-four, found in Renegade and other Stellantis (Chrysler) products. There’s no shortage of online forums and Reddit discussions about mysterious drops in oil levels with no signs of leaks. A classic sign of an oil consumption issue, which, in the case of the Tigershark engine, is often associated with piston ring wear.

A class action settlement has been reached covering 2015–2018 Jeep Renegade and other Stellantis vehicles equipped with the 2.4L Tigershark. The settlement provides extended warranties and potential reimbursement for affected owners.

Kia’s problem centers on the notorious Theta II engine. This GDI power plant was used across multiple models, including the Kia Optima, Sportage, and Sorento, as well as the Kia Forte and Soul, with related engine families (as well as several Hyundai nameplates, including the Sonata, Santa Fe, and Tucson). Here, the trouble extends beyond oil consumption. The Theta II Kia engine has a history of connecting rod bearing wear leading to knocking, seizure, or complete engine failure.

Through a $1.3 billion class action settlement and subsequent engine recalls, Kia extended the powertrain warranty on affected vehicles to 15 years or 150,000 miles, covering damage to the engine block assembly caused by connecting rod bearing failure. To qualify, owners must have the free knock sensor detection system (KSDS) software update installed at a Kia dealership before experiencing a failure.”

If you own any of these affected models and face one of these engine problems, you’re not breaking any new ground. Jeep and Kia service departments, independent technicians, and warranty claims adjusters are all too familiar with the trouble. Yet, just because your engine issues are similar to a well-known problem doesn’t mean an automatic green light for warranty repairs. You’ll need documented proof, which may involve an oil consumption test.

The Oil Consumption Test: What It Is and Why It Matters

Suspected excessive oil consumption doesn’t automatically translate into an engine replacement. Whether you’re dealing with an automaker through an authorized dealership or an extended warranty provider, proof is required. The first step is usually an oil consumption test, which can become a crucial piece of evidence to support your claim.

Here’s a typical breakdown of the process:

1. A technician drains and refills the engine oil in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Tamper-proof seals may be placed on the dipstick, oil fill cap, oil filter, and drain plug to prevent interference during the test.
2. You’ll drive for a designated range, usually 1,000 miles, and then return for the measurement.
3. The technician will check how much oil has been lost and compare the results with the acceptable consumption rate. Manufacturers set different thresholds for acceptable oil consumption, but many consider consumption exceeding a quart every 2,000 to 3,000 miles as a potential concern. Some engines, particularly high-performance or turbocharged models, may consume oil at higher rates, but consistent consumption of a quart per 1,000 miles or more is generally considered excessive.
4. One test may not be sufficient, especially if the initial results are borderline. In this case, a second or third test may be needed to confirm excessive oil consumption. Multiple attempts aren’t bad, as each effort builds a record of how the engine functions.

The process may also connect to a check engine light diagnosis using an OBD-II scanner. However, high oil consumption doesn’t directly generate a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). Instead, a mechanic will look for related DTCs.

For example, DTC P0300 through P0308 are common misfire codes, which oil-fouled spark plugs can trigger. At the same time, DTC P0420 could signal a catalytic converter damaged by oil. Camshaft timing codes can also surface if low oil levels affect the operation of the variable valve timing system. Low oil can also contribute to unusual engine noise, which the technician may note.

Any of these findings can demonstrate a pattern and strengthen the case for abnormal oil consumption. It’s the proof needed to show an internal mechanical issue. Warranty providers generally rely on objective evidence when evaluating a claim.

What to Document and How to Build the Record

There’s more to the process than just running an oil consumption test. Everything must be documented.

You’ll need a comprehensive, written summary of the test. This information should be reflected on a dated repair order or service invoice. The details should include the initial fill, the mileage at the start and conclusion of the test, and specific notation of any measured oil loss.

Outside of a consumption test, regularly track the car’s oil level. Set a schedule, perhaps weekly or monthly, depending on how much you drive. Keep a log noting the date, odometer reading, dipstick level, and quantity of oil added. You may even want to include a photo of each dipstick reading. Keep receipts for oil purchases. An organized record carries more weight than a few casual notes.

A well-documented maintenance history is equally important. Warranty providers want to verify that the car was well-maintained, which is a requirement for any vehicle service contract. Keep receipts for every oil change, ensuring the paperwork records the date and mileage at the time of the service. The oil type should also be included.

Lastly, be sure the documentation includes any related technical service bulletins (TSBs); the TSB number just needs to be in the details. In addition, anything substantive that you might have been told (like the engine is “out of spec”) should be noted in the paperwork.

How This Documentation Supports a Warranty Claim

Warranty claims decisions are based on the facts—what can be proven. Just because something is wrong with the engine doesn’t mean a claim will be automatically approved. The warranty provider wants to know if a part inside the engine failed or if the problem can be traced to improper maintenance.

For instance, an oil consumption issue tied to worn piston rings or other internal wear may be covered. However, if there’s no supporting information about what’s happening, the problem could also be attributed to a lack of regular maintenance. Conversely, an oil consumption test coupled with documentation of regular oil changes and other servicing puts you in a stronger position.

Gaps in service records don’t automatically mean a claim will be denied, but they can slow the process, as an adjuster may want more information. In the end, two engines can fail the same way and get different outcomes. The difference is often the paperwork behind them.

What Endurance Covers and When to Start the Process

While coverage can vary by provider, many vehicle service contracts include numerous internal engine parts. For example, here’s a partial list of the engine components covered by Endurance that could be connected to high oil consumption:

• Pistons
• Piston Rings
• Cylinder Block (cylinder wall wear)
• Cylinder Head(s)
• Valve Guides
• Valve Seals
• Crankshaft Main Bearings
• Connecting Rod Bearings
• Camshaft
• Camshaft Bearings
• Valve Lifters
• Oil Pump and Oil Pump Housing

All Endurance plans offer this core coverage. Complete coverage information is available by reviewing sample contracts. However, coverage needs to start before a problem surfaces.

If you’re covered by Endurance and suspect the engine has abnormal oil consumption, have it checked at a dealership or repair shop. Endurance plan holders can take their cars to any licensed facility for covered repairs. An oil consumption test may be recommended. To start the claims process, the shop will contact Endurance. You may be responsible for diagnostic charges if the claim isn’t approved or if the work is outside the scope of the vehicle service contract.

Be sure to keep all records, especially from the test results. Proof of abnormal oil consumption alone won’t necessarily lead to an approved repair. There has to be a related mechanical failure inside the engine. Later, if the shop finds worn piston rings, bearing damage, or similar internal wear, that diagnosis and the earlier test results can be sent in for review. Keep track of all repair visits to show how the problem developed.

Taking the Next Step With Endurance

Whether you drive a Jeep, Kia, or any vehicle with oil consumption issues, there’s a straightforward way to address the problem, especially if you have an extended warranty. If you’re worried about breakdowns and surprise repair bills, Endurance is ready with a range of options.

Our most affordable powertrain plan covers the engine, transmission, and drive axles. Mid-tier programs add safeguards for air conditioning, cooling systems, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, fuel systems, steering, and more. Endurance Supreme has the fewest exclusions and offers coverage similar to a manufacturer’s warranty that accompanies a new car. There are also options for select luxury models, commercial-use vehicles, and high-mileage cars.

Every Endurance Warranty plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance with towing and lockout services, rental car reimbursement, and trip interruption protection. Choose from convenient monthly payments or a simple upfront payment. All plans include a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Endurance customers are also eligible for a free year of Elite Benefits, worth up to $2,000, including tire repairs and replacements, windshield coverage, key fob replacement, and collision repair discounts.

Learn more about protecting your car with Endurance. Request a FREE quote or get instant plan information and pricing through our online store. Team members are also available to review coverage options or answer your questions; just call (800) 253-8203.

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