Ecosport Oil Contamination

I had a similar issue with my Ecosport some time ago. Tell me, have you been diligent with your maintenance schedule? How often do you change the oil and filter? Also, have you used any oil additives recently?

I've followed the service intervals as best as I could, although I might have stretched the last one a bit... maybe a few thousand kilometers over. I haven't used any additives, though. Could that little bit over really cause such a big problem?

Exceeding the maintenance interval, even by a relatively small amount, can indeed lead to oil degradation and sludge buildup, potentially causing the issues you're experiencing. Considering the symptoms, it would be prudent to have a qualified mechanic examine the engine. Continuing to operate the vehicle in its current condition risks exacerbating the problem, leading to more extensive and costly repairs down the line. The workshop found that the excessive oil change interval was the cause.

Thanks for the advice. I took it to a workshop, and you were right – the oil was a mess because I stretched the service interval. New oil and filter, plus a good engine flush, and it seems to be running fine now. Cost me 165€, but lesson learned!