Excessive Oil Consumption in my 2016 Volvo S60 T5 - Is this normal?

Excessive oil consumption in your 2016 Volvo S60 T5 with the Drive-E engine is a concern that warrants investigation. While some oil consumption is normal for any engine, 1-2 quarts every 3,000 miles is generally considered high for a relatively new vehicle and could indicate an underlying issue.

Common causes for increased oil consumption in these engines include:

1. PCV System Issues: The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system can sometimes clog or fail, leading to increased crankcase pressure and forcing oil past piston rings or valve seals. This can also sometimes lead to a lean condition (P0171) or misfires.
2. Turbocharger Seals: Leaking turbocharger seals can allow oil to enter the intake or exhaust system, where it is burned off without visible external leaks. You might notice a faint blue tint to the exhaust under hard acceleration, or a burning smell.
3. Piston Rings/Valve Stem Seals: While less common on newer engines, worn or stuck piston rings or deteriorated valve stem seals can allow oil to enter the combustion chamber. This often results in blue smoke from the exhaust, especially on startup or deceleration.
4. Software/Engine Management: In some rare cases, engine management software can contribute to issues, though this is less directly related to consumption and more to performance.

When to see a shop: You should have your Volvo dealership perform a thorough diagnostic. They can conduct an oil consumption test, which involves precisely measuring the oil level, sealing the dipstick, and having you return after a set mileage to re-measure. They will also inspect the PCV system, check for turbocharger play, and look for any internal engine issues. They can also check for relevant TSBs related to oil consumption for your specific engine code. Early diagnosis can prevent more significant engine damage and potentially costly repairs down the line. Keep an eye out for any check engine lights, which might present codes like P0171 (System Too Lean) or P0420 (Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold) if the oil burning is affecting emissions components.