Just got a 1990 SI hatchback a few months ago that I've been eyeballin' for years( one of the best investments of my short life so far, a sure 7 on the fun scale shootin for 10 soon). Anyway at first it didn't burn any oil then about a month after I started consistently driving it I noticed the oil light panning in and out upon hard and sometimes soft braking. I changed the oil and then about 3 weeks later it started again with the same symptoms but then upon idle without a/c the oil light fluttered between about 1/2 to 3/4 brightness (I have no clue if thats supposed to happen I assumed it meant it was due to oil pressure fluctuating). Anyway long story short now it burns and leaks about 1 qrt every 100 miles. Oil is present on top of tranny on pass. side and also appears to leak from cam gear and crank side. I've already read into the archives a lil and got some good ideas, just wanting to hear some of the most common things to check to narrow down the problem. Right now I'm assuming it could be between the pcv valve, head gasket or crank or cam seal. Not alot of oil near the valve cover but it is burning oil as well as leaking it. smoke only thick when first started for about 2 mins or upon going past 4500 rpm's. I know I'll have to figure this out myself for the most part just looking to hear some idea's for things to check maybe one of these symptoms will help someone lead me in the right direction. Please help, I love my civic.

 

bump, at least throw me towards some specific archived content.

 

Rear main seal? It is between the transmission and crankshaft. I took mine into the shop when I got it. I think if I had come across it NOW, I might have been able to do it myself, but I was really new when I found it. On cars with high mileage, it is common. If you can get to it yourself, do it. If not, expect to pay some money.