If the air-con is in fresh air mode there is an oil smell entering the cab if the car is stationary with the motor running, not a problem when driving along at normal speeds or with the air-con in recirculated mode. I have a known problem of the motor blowing an initial puff of oil smoke from the exhaust when starting the engine after it has been turned off for the day/night or more, but after talking to my mechanic a while ago, he suggested that a small amount of oil is leaking through a seal somewhere in the top part of the motor and getting into a cylinder or two is causing the puff of smoke?? His advice was that is not using anywhere near enough oil to justify spending the money on solving that issue yet. I am positive that the air-con is not picking up the smell from the exhaust because it is basically instant in getting into the cab after starting, so I am thinking where ever the fresh air pick up for the air-con is close to an oil breather hose or something. Anyone had the same problem that might know where it could be coming from. Cheers. Tink

 

Doesn't happen with my 2004 STR. I reckon it's a fault.

 

Take a look for a leaking cam cover dripping on the exhaust.

 

I had the same issue. I don't know what engine you have, but on mine, a 3.0 L, the left hand bank ( viewed facing engine), was leaking oil, and dripping onto the exhaust manifold. The smell of the burning oil would enter the interior, especially when the climate control system was on.

The cause was one of the two "half moon" metal inserts that goes into the back of the cylinder head, nearest the firewall. They are in place with silicone sealant. Initially I thought it was the cam cover gasket causing the issue, but it was not.

Be sure to consult JTIS when putting the cam cover back, it gives bolt tightening sequences, as well as proper final torque values. It also shows specific areas where to add beads of silicone sealant.

Again, this was on the 3.0 engine, MY 2003

 

Thanks guys. Jimmy, mine is the 4.2 supercharged V8.
I will check for possible leaks around the cam cover and elsewhere when under the bonnet next.

 

Won't help you any Tink, but for folks like Jimmy clicking here based on the thread title with the 3.0L, a more common cause (and cheaper/easier fix!) is leaking IMT O-rings. There is a great How-to with pics posted by JoycesJag.

Again, no help to those with a 4.2L, Supercharged or otherwise.....Sorry

 

Is the cowl cover secure? The cabin air filter is located under the cowl on the passenger side, and if there is an oil leak onto the exhaust manifold, that might be the source of that entrance into the cabin.

 

Had a good look under the hood and from underneath today, could not find any leaks with what limited vision there is without pulling things apart.
Will get the shop to have a look next time it is in for a service.
Cheers.

 

That is about 99.99% correct.