So, I just got back to the states. Girlfriend bought a 2004 Silverado with the 5.3L V8.

I noticed that the DIC was saying "Check Engine Oil". I know that for the DIC to show that, the oil level has to get to at least 1 quart low. So, we went into a convience store and bought a quart to get us home.

Went out this morning to move the truck, and a HUGE puff of thick grey smoke rolled out of the pipe. Way too condensed to be the normal cold start stuff. When I got on the gas to back up, it puffed out some more smoke. When the smoke thinned out, it had a blue tint to it in the sun. That'* how I know it was oil.

Now, what to do. Truck is under warranty from the purchase, just $100 out of pocket. Should I be telling them to look at the valves or the piston rings, or both?

does it only do it on cold starts? or will it do it after being warm also?is there a presence of oil in your tb?..Sounds like valve seals/seats in a sense my camaro does it also..start it puff smoke rev it up once puff smoke then its good till you shut her down again

I'll have to check it when it'* warm to let you know on that. Like I said, we're taking it in to get fixed whatever it is. I just didn't figure an 04 would do it. Little too new in my mind.

there has been some issues with the newer trucks with oil consumption and knock, the common explanation seems to be they arent using matched sets in the factory engine build anymore just specs to make sure the pistons and things fit right. i even think there is a class action suit developing for the knock.

it seems like 1 qt per oil change interval is normal so if its been a while since the oil has been changed it may be normal.

Hasn't been awhile. It'* about 1k shy by the sticker.

Called my dad, he thinks valve seals/guides. He'* under the assumption that they'll recondition the heads since its warranty work.

Well if not a head recondition (here) is about 500 at a machine shop

Hooray for warranties!

Yeah buddy

Like I told my dad. I don't care what they do to fix it, as long as they fix it.

He said if I had the truck there, we'd be rebuilding the engine. I wouldn't mind doing that if I was the one doing the work since it'* not much to do it yourself but time.

I hate not having access to a shop anymore. Maybe once I get into school they'll let me use theirs.