E220CDI using oil, is this normal?

[anonymous-user]

I've got an 08 plate E220CDI, bought it at 4k miles, it's now done 8k miles. When I bought it I checked the oil and it was fine, 2k miles later at 6k and the warning light came on - took the full litre top up to bring it to 3/4 of the way between min and max on dipstick. Now, only 2k miles later the same warning light has came on again, it needs another litre.

I know some cars use a little oil from new but I've never experienced any needing this much (that said I've never had a diesel or an engine of this capacity before), does this seem normal? I can't see any oil on my drive so I don't think I'm losing any, unless the oil drain plug drips onto some undertray or the like.

Anyone with similar experience of oil usage on such a new car?

[cptsideways]

It's not normal! However some cars do use some though the manufacturer will say that X amount is OK, you need to find out what it is from a freinly techy man at the dealers & get yours checked.

However I'd suggest that if it were to run dry on say a decent trip to the Alps then your looking at a dead engine.

PS running the car with the Oil pressure light means your engine will very soon be fooked!!!!! like just a few miles if your lucky.

[anonymous-user]

Thanks for that. It's never run low for long, the oil light comes on when the level has dipped just below minimum on the dipstick and I always carry a 1L topup bottle in the boot so top it up straightaway again.

I guess since it's under warranty I should throw it back to the dealer for a day to investigate, I just wanted some expert opinion in case they tell me 'they all do that' and don't bother to investigate properly, my local main dealer isn't the best but there's only one within reasonable driving distance.

[cptsideways]

I'd suggest ringing a few dealers local or not & ask to speak to a tech person, you might varying viewpoints

[Monkeylegend]

Sounds like it is using more than it should. My '07 plate has just done 100k miles and in that time I have not had to add any oil between services ie 15k ish miles. Would definately take it in to get it checked while it is covered by warranty.

[anonymous-user]

Thanks for all replies, for anyone interested Merc themselves have advised me that for the diesel E-Classes 1 Litre per 1k miles is acceptable during the first 10k miles (), but did offer to look over the car for me.

Helpful 'diesel-minded' chap at MB Club Forum also suggests this is acceptable and has advised caning it flat out on a steep hill, to burn off glaze and allow piston rings to seat better - and any excuse to cane it is acceptable in my book.