2018 Blue Smoke - Some answers

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At 68k miles, I noticed a puff of blue smoke from my Crosstrek.

Subaru dealer ran several checks and tests which included:
1. PCV checked and replaced
2. Changed spark plugs
3. Checked seals and valve guides
4. Performed a compression test
and decided that the problem was a Carbon Deposit issue
5. $1700 Carbon Deposit manual cleanup -> result: Still blue smoke

At 82k miles, performed an Oil Consumption test - it passed
Dealer wants to try a heaver grade of oil on next oil change from 0W20 to 5W30
This is a band-aid approach...

I reached out to Scotty Kilmer (Youtuber mechanic... he's in his 70's now and very knowledgeable in my opinion... you can look him up).
Surprisingly, he responded to me on 05/18/2025 via email.

I wanted to bring the car to him since the dealer did not know what else to try - aside from a thicker oil.

Scotty responded and said there was no need for him to see the vehicle, because based on the diagnostics they performed - he determined that the Oil Control Rings are wearing out. The Oil Control Rings are below the Compression Rings.

He didn't say to replace the pistons, but that's a given. In other words, all the pistons would need to be replaced most likely and if you do that - you might as well replace the engine. He did say Subaru used to make very good cars for the long haul, but somehow, they lost their way.

I wrote to Subaru yesterday, 05/19/25 and made a complaint with all the information I had, including others experiencing the blue smoke at around the same mileage I did (68k or so). I asked them how they are going to make this right for existing car owners. Waiting for their reply and will post it.

Some more info: I met someone with the same model and year car I had. She told me 3 years ago; the dealer had to replace the engine. 2 weeks ago, at around 67k miles, she noticed blue smoke coming out.

There you have it - I'm sorry about this and hope in your cases it's not as bad, but for me that's the issue... Worse part is I'm still making payments.
 

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