I have a 98 Volvo S70 base model with 120k miles on it. Since the last oil change I have noticed my engine oil level keeps dipping at a steady rate. It's nothing dramatic but I need to refuel 1/4 to 1/2 qt every 3-4 weeks and I drive about 500 miles a week. Also I have noticed during cold starts the engine is a little hesistent and can hear the piston not cranking as smoothly during start up. The engine viberates a little more now than when its new but it doesn't seem like there's going to be claustrophic failure. My question is should I have someone take a look at the engine now? What are the possibilies the engine is burning oil? I have checked my garage floor and there is no pool of oil and I have also taken a look under the car and there are no tell tale signs of oil leaking. What might be the cause of this?

I know if I have someone take a look at the engine he's going to have to open it up and it's not going to be cheap. Sholuld I just wait till the engine dies and have it rebuild or have it checked now? I am planning on driving this car till 200k. If I do get it rebuilt now I might have a turbo placed in. Any thoughts are welcome.

Robert.