9-5 loads of smoke on startup?

I would have said valve stem seals, but it seems you have done most of the research and looked at all the possible problems. Best taking it to the local garage for them to take it apart again and correct the work they did. I wouldn't have bought a car with a problem like that considering the very high mileage - with or without a service history. It's amazing how many people working in a garage don't even know what a stem seal is. My local main dealers for Vauxhall, Ford and Honda farm the work out to smaller companies that true mechanics work for. Honda the most, especially for things like body repairs!

I've had the same problem on a 2002 9-5. It was a seal problem in the turbo. Luckily the car was still under warranty, I think it was $1500

I had the same symptom at 125k kms on my 2001 SAAB Linear wagon (2.3l light pressure turbo). It turned out to be the turbo and associated seals. The problem is fixed now, after replacing the turbo for $2100 (Canadian). No more smoke, except for the vapour left behind in my bank account ;-( Ouch.

Thanks for all replies. Is there any way to pinpoint if it is the turbo or engine problem? I checked the spark plugs and they are bone dry so I don't think it is worn bores / piston rings. The engine smokes badly after first start up and clears after about half a mile. If left for about 20 mins it will smoke again on start up but not as bad as been left for several hours. In the short time of owning the car there has not been any noticeable loss of engine oil but it must be using some oil to cause the clouds of bluish smoke and the exhaust pipe is coated in oil deposits

Check for blocked crankcase breathers. IF it is the turbo seals you will know by leaving it idling for 10 minutes. If it starts to blow white smoke after 5-10 mins its likely to be turbo seals.

Great advice here. The engine, at idle, will maintain oil pressure yet the blower will be still, allowing the oil to pool. Well done Coyoteboy!

T.

Ooh :) Thanks! Unfortunately its down to experience - wish i didnt know!

Remove the air duct feeding the turbocharger. Spin the impeller with your fingers and try to move it side to side and also in and out. The impeller should have no play.

Its been my experience that when you have smoke on start up, and then clears up. Spells turbo. not a cheap repair, but if you do it your self, be sure to clean the small turbo line out to clear it of oil, also replace it before it begins to smoke on deceleration, that can lead to another bag of problems, such as loading cat convertor with oil.

Best of luck to you.

Is there a knocking at startup when cold?

Red

Correction, there should be little play. Oil seals can still be dead though. Remove the duct between the turbo and the inlet and you remove the turbo from the question entirely.

No it won't. If the turbo is leaking oil on the exhaust side it will still cause smoke from the exhaust.