Oil consumption in the 2019 Honda Odyssey has been a topic of discussion among owners, with some attributing excess consumption to the Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) system. Understanding how VCM works and its potential relationship to oil consumption helps owners make informed decisions about maintenance and modifications.
Understanding VCM Operation
The 2019 Odyssey's 3.5L V6 features VCM, which can deactivate up to three cylinders during light-load driving to improve fuel economy. The system uses solenoid-operated rocker arms that can lock out, preventing valves from opening on deactivated cylinders. This reduces pumping losses and improves efficiency.
VCM activates frequently during highway cruising, gentle acceleration, and steady-state driving. The system seamlessly transitions between 3, 4, and 6-cylinder modes based on power demand.
The Oil Consumption Theory
Some owners and technicians believe VCM contributes to oil consumption through several mechanisms. Frequent cylinder deactivation and reactivation may increase piston ring wear. Deactivated cylinders may allow oil vapor to accumulate, potentially fouling spark plugs or being burned when the cylinder reactivates.
However, this theory isn't universally accepted. Many Odysseys operate with VCM for hundreds of thousands of miles without excessive oil consumption. Individual engine tolerances, driving patterns, and maintenance practices all affect consumption.
Monitoring Oil Consumption
Establish a baseline by tracking oil level at each fill-up. Note mileage and how much oil you add between changes. Honda considers up to 1 quart per 3,000 miles within "normal" range, though most owners expect less. Consistent tracking reveals trends and identifies if consumption is increasing.
VCM Disablers
Aftermarket devices that disable VCM are popular among Honda owners concerned about oil consumption. These plug-in devices prevent cylinder deactivation, keeping all six cylinders firing continuously. Owners report smoother operation and some report reduced oil consumption after installation.
Popular options include VCMuzzler and VCMtuner, ranging from $50-150. These devices don't permanently modify the ECU and can be removed. However, fuel economy decreases slightly with VCM disabled since you lose the efficiency benefit.
Warranty Considerations
Using a VCM disabler could potentially affect warranty coverage if Honda determines the device contributed to a failure. However, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act requires manufacturers to prove causation before denying coverage. Many owners use disablers without warranty issues.