So I was changing the oil the other day and noticed that it smelled like gasoline. Took it to the mechanic and he said this is normal for older, higher mileage vehicles. What do you guys think?

 

On older vehicles some fuel will wash past the rings and get into the oil in severe worn engines. My first Cherokee had a tiny bit of that but it was hardly noticeable. It had 300K miles on it and when I tore it down it required 20 thousandths overbore. So yes it can happen but it is pretty rare and is only on really worn engines.

 

Its got 150,000 miles on it soooo, if its not normal what could it be?

 

Your rings are worn!!

 

When I got my XJ at 166K, I had that gas smell in the oil. Once I got around to replacing the CCV fitting and hoses, it stopped and hasn't come back.

 

I was hoping it wasnt the rings. I just replaced my spark plugs -- could it have anything to do with that?? Or maybe the fuel pump??

 

it also might mean its been a hella long time since a oil change too