I have a ’99 A6 1.8t with the APU engine at 150k on the clock. I’ve owned it since new and can verify that it’s been used but not abused. I use it for a 100m daily commute. The car owes me nothing but I’d like to keep it for another 30k.

In the last year, power at the top end has disappeared and it struggles on hills. Maf has been changed and compression test varies between 165-178 which seems respectable for its age, doesn't it? Big problem is oil usage – it just seems to disappear. No leaks, no smoke, plugs are clean.

Vacuum Test – with the PCV plugged in the TIP I get a viscous ‘gurgling’ from low down at the turbo at very low pressure.

Am I right in concluding that the oil seals in the turbo have failed? If I put in a cheap(ish) Chinese K03 clone will that sort things for the remaining life of the car?. What I mean is, am I likely to have suffered other damage from the oil loss?

Thanks in advance.