Back trying to solve some of my niggly problems.

 

Oil consumption has always been a bit high. When I had 5w30 in there, it would use just over 1ltr per 1000 miles. Since putting 10w40 in at my last service, its slowed it down some as now its only using about 1ltr per 1500 miles. I would like to swap back to the 5w30 however, because I noticed a drop in MPG since doing the oil change (nothing else on the car has changed), but I want to get to the bottom of the consumption first. She doesn't seem to blue smoke, and I can't see it physically leaking out of the car.

 

Any recommendations for what could be causing it?

Can't remember what has gone before with this car. Have you inspected or replaced the oil separator/PCV valve assembly on the back of the engine block?

8 minutes ago, Breezy_Pete said:

Can't remember what has gone before with this car. Have you inspected or replaced the oil separator/PCV valve assembly on the back of the engine block?

 

Its had a pre-cat lambda sensor about 3 months ago, an oil pressure sensor about 4 months ago, and a new exhaust flexi and cat about 8 months ago. Been driving it round since then with no hiccups (other than some squeaky bushes and a rattly bonnet, the latter finally fixed). Oil consumption has always been a bit of an issue since I bought it in Feb this year though.

 

I haven't checked the oil separator. How easy is it to remove?

You need to be underneath the car to access the fasteners of the oil separator,  and it's not totally easy then, cos the subframe gets in the way of good visibility. 

If you don't have trolley jack and axle stands to raise/support the front of the car safely, don't bother trying.