Hi everyone,

I'm new to the site and hope someone can help shed some light before I invest an added $2k. I have a 2003 Audi A4 1.8 quattro turbo, which has approx 70K miles on it. Late December, it had some work done because it was leaking oil. However, I had noticed that it was gradually consuming a lot of oil. I mean A LOT! It now turns out that the oil is going via the turbo and the job will cost approximately $2K to repair.
Has anyone else had this problem? Can anyone tell me what it entails?
Any input would be appreciated!
Thanks,
KCS

 

I honstly have never seen a turbo with leaking shaft seals unless the engine was severly neglected. Only been an Audi tech for a little over three years but haven't seen any turbo failures in the shop yet. Not saying it can't happen though. What I have seen frequently is a failure in the crankcase ventilation system. Before popping for a new turbo, make sure all the check valves, hoses, etc are functioning properly. If a valve has failed, the crankcase can get boost pressure which can cause oil to blow out (external leaks) OR into the intake system where it's burned. There will be excessive oil in the intercooler hoses. Note, some oil in the lower parts (like where the hose connects to the intercooler) is normal by the way. The 1.8L is notorious for crankcase ventilation faults of various kinds.