Big Engine Oil loss

I just recently inherited a 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 2.3l disi turbo from my friend. Everything is stock except there is a k&n filter performance intake installed. About a month ago after getting an oil change, I noticed a considerable amount of oil below my engine. I went on to inspect my skid plate and dipstick for signs of oil. The skid plate had some spots but not enough to be related to the amount on the ground. The dipstick showed no oil. I filled the engine until I saw the reading reach capacity.

Took it to the dealership. They noticed a leak on the backside of the timing cover near the alternator. I inspected it as well and it did not seem like the leak that contributed to all the oil I saw on the ground. They quoted me for a service to change the vvt, timing chain, front crankshaft seal, etc.

I have then been filling the engine with oil every week. It seems to be losing enough oil every week to where there is no reading on the dipstick. There is a point where I feel considerable powerloss and then I check the dipstick and I see no oil reading. This is the only sign that I can tell there is something wrong. The turbo sounds fine and works. There is no smell or sign of oil burning.

I have decided to stop driving it until I fix the problem. Has anyone had the same problem or know what the cause is and how to fix it?

 

Wipe off the (likely) horribly dirty spot that you think oil is leaking from. Get some photos of where the oil is actually leaking from and we can go from there.

Also, I would agree with the not driving until you ensure oil remains inside the motor.

 

It sounds like the oil is being consumed. The OEM cat does a good job of controlling all kinds of exhaust. Pay attention to your exhaust on a cold start, you may see something. When someone comes to me with your problem, I rev the car relatively high while the car is parked and watch the plumes of smoke fill the parking lot. The car would not show any signs of smoke at normal engine idle and you wouldn't see anything while driving either.

Pull of your intake pipe leading up to the turbo and see if there is oil pooling up. Also check the intercooler and throttle body for signs of oil pooling.

 

The oil feed for the turbo bolts to the block right in that area. It's a banjo bolt, could be slightly loose or have bad crush washers.