My 2004 XC90 with 196,000 miles runs great but it has developed an annoying leak over the past 4 months. I think it may be oil. I cleaned the bottom of the engine to try and find the source of the leak.

Day 1: Relatively clean view from the ground toward the front of the engine.

Day 1 afternoon: After cleaning, I drove the car and then parked it in the garage overnight. The next morning you can see the fluid creating a wet spot. Not enough to drip to the ground yet.

Day 2: I drove the car for about 15 miles, parked it in the garage, and then crawled underneath for a look. I noticed the origin of the leak seems to be coming from the part with the tube and bolt. You may be able to see a fluid drop on the head of the bolt.

I recently changed the oil and the color and texture of the mystery fluid appears to be oil. But who knows.

I drive a lot of highway miles and this is my daily driver.

Any thoughts on what might be causing the leak and advice on how to repair it?

Thanks in advance!

 

Turbo return line drain tube o-ring at the block is a common leak. Hard to see/get to with a awd car.

 

Thanks, hoonk. Should I just keep an eye on the oil level on the dipstick? Is this an expensive repair or a job for an experienced mechanic.