I've got a 1999 accord 4 cyl vtec with 208k. Checked the oil today and noticed a fairly strong gas odor from the dipstick which is not normal. The oil looked and felt ok at least on the dipstick. The engine seems to be running fine. About 2 weeks ago I noticed a mild rough idle after the engine was hot but it wasn't consistent. The car was just on a 500 mile trip with no problem although I think it burned about 1/2 quart of oil. I'm hoping it's just the PCV valve. Besides the head gasket what else should I be looking at?

 

Pull your spark plugs and see if any of them are wet with fuel.

Excessive blow by, incomplete combustion/fuel washing the cylinders and long periods between oil changes can be reasons for a gas smell in oil.

 

Pulled the plugs and they all look normal. I'm thinking the intake needs to be cleaned - since it's never been done with a 208k engine. Any other suggestions are appreciated.

 

Did you replace the pcv valve ? You can normally tell if it's bad by shaking it and listening. It should have something rattling around inside.