So, I've had this oil leak since I had my engine replaced. The quantity that leaks is exactly the same every 5k mi. The dipstick indicates that the oil is still within safe operating range but I still wonder if it's bad to just have 2-1/2 qts. of oil in there since it seems like such a small amount. Is it bad to let it get that low or am I ok??

 

Don't let it get that low. Start checking every 1000 miles and top off as needed. That oil keeps your engine and turbo lubricated and helps transfer excess heat out. Running low can accelerate ring and bearing wear. Keep a quart in the trunk and top off periodically.

 

Would it cost more to change the oil every 3k mi or to keep buying extra quarts of oil? I'm a strict MMobil 1 user and one qt is around 7 bucks. Or should I just buy a cheaper brand full synthetic just for topping off?

I don't know why I have the leak in the first place. It looks like a little bit is coming from tthe valve cover so I'll be replacing the gasket for that soon. The majority of it is coming from the timing belt area though. I don't get why because all the seals were replaced by my mechanic using the Blauparts kit before the engine was put in.

 

check all your oil lines and filter, i would hate spending 8$ every 2 weeks on oil. check the oil feed and return lines at your turbo, the feed line connects right at the oil filter. it shouldnt be your valve cover gasket since its the same amount every time, but check it anyway

 

No, it's not that bad. I drive 5,000 mi in about 10 weeks (500 mi a week). so it probably goes down 1 qt. in 4000 mi. Anyway, all oil feed and return lines are good. I can see the majority leaking out of the front of the motor from behind the TB cover. I'm assuming a poorly placed camshaft seal, intermediate shaft seal, or crankshaft seal is the culprit. A smaller amount covers the driver's side of the engine block which looks like it's coming from the valve cover.

For now, I guess I'll add a 1/2 qt. of oil every 2,000 mi. I think my dipstick isn't very accurate though because the oil marks a little under half of the crosshatched part when it's down 1-1/2 qts.

 

You should probably fix it... when the oil builds up enough and your timing belt slips, you are pretty screwed.