MK4 Jetta Burning Oil and Temperature panel light

[Skim]

2 Issues I need help with in a 2004 VW Golf:

1) I found out how to replace the temperature panel bulb and I took it out today and was wondering if anyone has the part number for the bulb? Is this part only available at the VW dealer or could I got it elsewhere? Anyone know how much it costs?

2) The car is burning oil...was looking through past posts in the forum and it appears that someone solved this problem by replacing the spark plugs...I just bought the car used so I have no idea when they were previously done...what should I do to prevent the car from burning the oil? Is this damaging my engine?

Thanks for any help

[mcrow]

Yes its damaging your catalytic converter and its not your spark plugs. You most likely have an internal engine problem, like worn piston rings or bad valve seals or something not fun. Its never a good sign when an engine burns oil and usually results in a engine rebuild.

Too bad you didnt notice before you bought the car.

[ZeroBahamutxRR]

Before you assume its a major mechanical problem, check the crankcase breather system to see if its working properly. If its stuck open it could be sucking in excess oil and if its stuck closed it could be pressurizing the system causing excess oil pressure. If all else fails you'll have to take it to your local mechanic and have them do a leak-down test on each cylinder. If you have a compression tester you can do it yourself. As for the light in the dash, if you know of a destributor for world-pac (car-quest deals with them) they might have a listing. The dealer lists the bulb for about 3-4 bucks so regardless it would be better to go there and get the exact part from them.

[Skim]

I also noticed that a steam-like smoke comes out when the engine is warm and I take off the oil cap...is this normal for this car?

Also, could the oil burning have anything to do with the fact that I use the car mainly on the highway? I used to have a Toyota truck that burned oil when I drove on the highway so I thought this may be similar

[mcrow]

That steam like smoke is blowby gases getting past your piston rings.