Does the third-generation EA888 engine still consume oil?
3 Answers
Third-generation EA888 engine oil consumption has been improved. Here is the relevant information: 1. Oil-gas separation: Volkswagen made significant adjustments to the engine structure based on previous consumer feedback regarding oil consumption issues. The adoption of a two-stage centrifugal oil-gas separator has significantly enhanced the separation efficiency of oil vapor, greatly reducing the oil consumption rate compared to the previous generation and noticeably improving the oil burning phenomenon. 2. Variable intake valve timing: While addressing the issue of excessive oil consumption, the third-generation EA888 engine also employs variable intake valve timing technology, effectively improving intake efficiency. Without increasing displacement, the engine's power parameters have been enhanced. For example, the 2.0T high-power version engine in the Audi Q5L achieves a maximum horsepower of 252 PS.
To be honest, I've always been quite focused on Volkswagen's third-generation EA888 engine. From a technical perspective, launched after 2012, it made numerous optimizations to address the oil consumption issues of previous generations, such as piston ring design and upgrades to the oil-gas separation system, which reduced oil consumption. However, based on my observations, it hasn't completely eliminated the problem 100%; if maintenance is improper or the car has high mileage, there are still reports of slight consumption. The reasons could be aging seals or aggressive driving habits. It's recommended to check the oil dipstick every 5,000 kilometers, and if you notice a rapid drop, take it to the repair shop for inspection. In the long run, this generation of engine is much more reliable, so don't worry too much—the key is to pay extra attention to maintenance.
I drove a car with the second-generation EA888 engine for several years, and the oil consumption was really a headache. The oil light kept coming on, and I had to top up the oil frequently. After switching to the third-generation EA888, the situation improved significantly; after driving over 50,000 kilometers, the oil level remained mostly stable, with only a slight decrease during oil changes, far less exaggerated than the previous generation. I believe the key is regular maintenance, such as changing the full synthetic oil and filter on time, and avoiding aggressive driving that can cause additional consumption. Talking with other car enthusiasts, most say it has improved, but if buying a used car, it's still advisable to check the records first and confirm the engine is in good condition before purchasing.
