Hi all,
Took my 08 JCW hatchback in to get an oil leak fixed; turned out the oil pan gasket and valve cover gasket were to blame. Shop replaced both parts, but messed up the oil pan gasket instillation. Drove it for a day or so with oil puking out the bottom. Smelled oil coming through the vents during this time, but assumed it was from the faulty pan instillation. Took it back in moderately annoyed and they re-replaced the oil pan and gasket (properly this time), and now driving around I'm still smelling oil. It's been long enough that it's not residual oil from the previous issues burning off. The smell only happens after I let the car idle for a bit, and then get on the gas (stoplights, stop and go traffic, etc.). There's no oil leaking out the bottom or around the valve cover. Any suggestions on what it might be? This wasn't happening before I brought it in to the shop.
Thanks,
WSJ

 

Valve cover leaks are common on the N series engines. Test your crankcase pressure to make sure you don't have a PCV valve failure.

 

Hi Mkov, thanks for the reply. I realize I didn't specify in my original post that the valve cover was also replaced at the initial visit. There's been no smoke from the exhaust or in the engine bay. What makes you think this is the issue? Also of note, the new one looks slightly different than the old one.
Thanks,
WSJ

 

Possible exhaust leak from exhaust manifold or turbo?

 

Hi there,
I doubt it's an exhaust leak because I don't smell any while driving or idling, only on accel after idling for a little while. It also smells strongly of oil, not gas/fumes.
Thanks,
WSJ

 

It's a diagnostic step to rule excessive crankcase pressure out as a possible cause. Aftermarket valve covers can be problematic.

 

Here’s a video I got of it. Tech at shop says it’s just residual oil burning off from previous leaks, but would love a second opinion.
Mechanic says no signs of oil leaks or anything.

 

Bump

 

Bump

 

Based on how the smoke is coming out, that looked like an exhaust leak to me...