turbo oil seals

[dpolson]

After a recent oil change (which I did, as a matter of routine, including draining the turbo reservoirs), I have suddenly developed a major oil leak coming out of left side intercooler pipes area. Have not yet investigated in detail. Shop where I just had an alignment done thinks it's a blown left turbo oil seal. Says turbo will likely have to be replaced. When I did a brisk left-accelerating-turn on the way back to my office, I generated a huge cloud of oil smoke. Otherwise, it is not visibly smoking, but it did leave a 12" diameter puddle of oil on the parking spot. Car has 80K miles. I have a lift and do all my own work (except alignment).

 

1) Is this indeed the likely a blown turbo oil seal? This seems uncommon, but perhaps not unheard-of, from scanning the forum.

1a) Is there anything I could have done during the oil change to cause this? I followed the same procedure I always do.

2) Is turbo replacement the only wise option?($3000 from Sunsset) What about a rebuilt "genuine OEM" unit from BuyAutoParts on eBay? ($679)

3) If I am going to the trouble to disassemble the turbo/exhaust system, would it be advisable to perform turbo and exhaust upgrades? We are satisfied with the stock power and sound, but mods are always fun and this might represent a good excuse to do some...as long as the cost isn't exorbitantly more than just repairing what I've got.

 

 

[JFP in PA]

Until you have put the car up in the air and look to see what is actually leaking, you really do not know what you are dealing with.  Oil leaks come from many places.  Look into it first, then get back with your questions.

[jpflip]

Did you overfilled the reservoir?

Edited November 21, 2015 by jpflip