So this isn't my RDX, but a friend recently purchased a 2007 RDX with about 70,000kms on it. He immediatly commented on what poor gas mileage it was getting. A qiuck glance at the engine and it was clear by the oil leaking around the diverter valve that something was not right. So I pulled the intercooler off to take a look at the turbo outlet and found quite a mess throughout the intake system. Check out the link to see the pictures. I don't have much experience with automotive turbocharging, as most of my work is on diesels... but never have I seen this much oil and water in any induction system.

The air filter was a mess and worn spark plugs to boot. Apparently there was a 160 point inspection of some description before it was sold. Evidently the inspection doesn't involve opening the hood...?

http://community.webshots.com/album/579648814DpVwdW

 

Doesn't look pretty at all.

 

That sucks. If the engine still runs without any awkward sounds then it may not have done much damage. The oil also looks like it has water in it as well. Best thing to do is pull all the intake piping out as well as turbo and intercooler and clean it out using some type of intake system cleaner that doesn't leave an oily residue. We have to figure out where the oil is coming from in the first place. It could be anywhere from the intake manifold or to the turbo itself (is this oil cooled?). I'm not sure if the RDX has a valve somewhere that transfers crankcase gas back to the intake manifold but I use to have a G35 that sucked oil into my intake manifold. (there are makeshift oil cans that people make to avoid this from happening). Some work will need to be done but it could be saved it seems like. Let us know how it goes. Good luck.

 

Toyota dealer? They should have caught the oil leak and dirty filter, but they don't pull a plug. What kind of mileage are we talking about?? I get 19mpg.

 

yikes! seems like some kind of oil/water leak in the intercoooler maybe? :shrugs: cant remember if the turbo is liquid or oil cooled....im thinkin liquid but dont quoate me on that

 

Hope it's a simple leak and an easy fix. Let us know where the leak is coming from and good luck!

Both fluids run thru the turbo to dissipate heat.

 

oil

 

Oil in the intercooler piping is quite likely caused by blown seal on the turbo.

 

What he said. There's a good chance you're seeing white smoke out of the exhaust too. With 40,000 mi I guess its possible, warranty should cover that though.

 

Oil and coolant.

 

We've done two RDX turbo's in the last few years that I know about at my dealership. A lot of these issues can be prevented by routine maintenance and a good tech IMO

 

Well, if someone needs another one....

http://phoenix.craigslist.org/nph/pts/2214339639.html

 

curious? aside from routine fluid checks/cheanges wat other maintenance is there to consider on this motor / turbo?....im a DIY person so i just wanna know for my wife 07 rdx

 

Oil changes are key along with keeping an eye out for any leaking around the valve cover area. The engine bay of these cars are swallowed up by the intercooler and covers, so leaks are easily overlooked. It doesn't hurt to take a peak at your water temp levels once in a while too.

 

got ya!