Is this a trait pertinent to older cars or could it be an engine problem I should be concerned about?

 

How fast does the oil go missing? If you can get more than 1000 miles per quart, that is considered acceptable, especially on older cars. A small amount is always going to leak past the piston rings and get burned up, which naturally gets worse as the engine wears. Always check your oil periodically between oil changes so you don't run out. The stock Civic engines only hold 3.5 quarts total including the filter.

 

I had the oil changed and topped off with a little over 3.5 quarts (169,500). I checked the oil level last week (171,350) and I cleaned off the dipstick and stuck it back in and no oil reading. So I filled it up again with about 3.5 quarts.

 

Something doesn't sound right, refilled 3.5 quarts? I mean, if your car was low 3.5 quarts it means the sump is dry and you'd be spinning bearings. Was your oil light coming on?

But yes, its a common trait of old hondas. Basically the oil rings get stuck in the piston lands and they become less effective and you slowly burn oil without seeing it. Sometimes a few MMO (marvel mystery oil) piston soaks can release the rings, but usually a rebuild is required.

 

Yeah, pretty much. The light would sometimes come on but quickly went away so I got curious and checked it out. I think something similar is happening with my brake fluid. Its the second time I've had to fill it up.

 

You need to find and fix that brake leak right away. Leaks only get worse, it's likely that all of a sudden you will have no brakes.

 

i have the same problem but it is the piston rings that are worn out and time to replace them does it smoke when accelerating?

 

As far as I know, no smoking. And what would the price range of rebuilding the engine or at least parts of it be?

 

I have no clue on re-building. Costly, I would imagine. Otherwise, I am sure you can find a low mileage engine swap for a cheaper price.

 

I've been thinking of about an engine swap and so far have found 2 b18b1 for 300 but one has already been sold so I'm looking at this one or this one but I really don't think it could just be dropped in and be finished.

The more cost effective option I see is a partial rebuild as I like the mileage I'm getting on it. But I wouldn't mind a more powerful engine.