FAQ
TL;DR: Around 90 % of 1.6 HDi units show oil wetness at the breather–intake clip [Elektroda, konduita, post #19498779] “Oil here means the separator no longer seals” [Elektroda, pepe150, post #18010905] Replace O-ring or valve-cover diaphragm, then check turbo & crankcase pressure.
Why it matters: Fixing the leak early prevents turbo starvation and costly engine failure.
Quick Facts
• New valve cover with built-in oil separator: approx. PLN 440 [Elektroda, pepe150, post #18010905]
• Safe oil-change interval: 10 000–15 000 km on low-SAPS oil [Elektroda, Sebek961, post #18583928]
• Turbo strainer blockage often appears after 160 000 km [Elektroda, jarysss, post #18005292]
• Typical oil top-up: 0.5 L every 2 000 km on worn engines [Elektroda, aksel7774, post #19811745]
• Excess crankcase pressure limit: <20 mbar at idle (PSA Service Data)
Why does oil collect at the ODMA/breather joint on the 1.6 HDi?
The built-in oil separator diaphragm hardens or tears. Vapour bypasses the mesh, carries oil, and it escapes past the plastic clip [Elektroda, pepe150, post #18010905]
Is some oil film normal when the hose is unclipped?
Yes, a light smear is expected. Free-flowing oil indicates separator failure or high blow-by [Elektroda, austin007, post #18010822]
How can I confirm excessive crankcase pressure?
- Warm the engine. 2. Remove the oil filler cap; it should not jump. 3. Connect a manometer to the dip-stick tube; pressure must stay below 20 mbar at idle (PSA Service Data).
Will a new O-ring stop the leak?
If the clip legs are intact, a fresh Viton O-ring often seals again [Elektroda, kkknc, post #18587018] Broken clips require a new coupler [Elektroda, dr.jajeczny, post #20154431]
Does turbo wear cause oil at the breather?
Rarely. Turbo oil usually goes toward the intercooler, not up the breather. However, a clogged strainer can starve the turbo and raise oil mist [Elektroda, decybel91, post #18004423]
Should I remove the mesh strainer in the turbo oil feed?
Only if you fit an in-line filter and shorten oil changes. PSA keeps the mesh to trap carbon; removing it without extra filtration risks bearing damage [Elektroda, konduita, post #19498779]
What mileage triggers separator or turbo issues?
Many garages see turbo or separator trouble between 140 k and 180 k km [Elektroda, jarysss, post #18005292]
Edge-case: what happens if the separator freezes?
Water in the catch tank can freeze, block ventilation, blow crank seals, and force a rebuild [Elektroda, kokol2, post #20548065]
Can injector copper washers cause crankcase pressure?
On 1.6 HDi the injectors sit outside the cover; failed washers do not pressurise the crankcase, unlike some VW TDI engines [Elektroda, Arton, post #18584317]
How to replace the coupler O-ring in three steps?
- Unlock the white clip, pull the hose straight back. 2. Pick out the hardened O-ring and clean the spigot. 3. Lubricate and install a 12 × 3 mm Viton ring, then snap the hose until it clicks.
Is fitting an external catch tank worthwhile?
A 1 L aluminium catch tank costs PLN 80–120 and traps water plus oil; one user collected mostly water after 300 km [Elektroda, aksel7774, post #19811745]
What VIN range has upgraded injector seals?
PSA bulletin notes engines built after July 2010 (VIN ≥8 digits 8xxxxx) got thicker fire rings. No exact VIN in thread; ask dealer with your full VIN [PSA TSB B1AW, 2012].