Hey guys,

Just topped up the oil and i've noticed some leakage in the rim on the top of engine block. On further inspection there are small (2cm length) metal splinters in the expelled oil.

My guess is this isnt good news?

She runs fine.

Is a '01 1.4 6n2 TDI...

Any ideas?

how low was the oil ? and how many miles have you done since checking it and topping it up this time

Do you mean 2mm or 20mm? 20mm is rather large. Are they steel? Use a magnet. Is it paint flaking off? Do you mean around the rocker cover gasket?

Do you mean 2mm or 20mm? 20mm is rather large. Are they steel? Use a magnet. Is it paint flaking off? Do you mean around the rocker cover gasket?

We're talking 20mm, they're metal splinters, and yes its around the rocker cover gasket.

I've had the car a year and must admit i've not changed the oil only topped her up. Shes having a service next month and MOT. Think it'll be ok that long?

I hope so!

As said, these are massive splinters to have come out of the engine!

Is it possible that there has been some body-work done at some time and these are the left overs from may be, a rasping operation?

The only other immediate thought is that it might be worth checking items like the camshaft sprocket, as I really can't imagine metal splinters that size being able to be carried out of the engine in a small oil leak.

When you get bearing metal in the oil (due to failing bearings) these tend to be in the form of flakes, rather than splinters and general wear and tear of components tends to leave a deposit in the oil which looks a bit like metallic paint.

As suggested above, if you put a magnet to them, you should be able to tell if they are iron/steel or non-ferrous, the latter of course, won't stick to a magnet.

Regards.