Car Leaking Oil | How to Fix Engine Oil Leaks

Car Leaking Oil

Have you ever noticed a dark, oily spot under your car after parking?

That’s a sign your car is leaking oil, and it’s something you shouldn’t ignore. An engine oil leak not only stains your driveway but also indicates a problem under the hood that could lead to more serious damage if left unattended.

Fixing an oil leak can sound like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and approach, it’s entirely manageable. From understanding the causes & solutions of an oil leak to knowing when it’s time to call in the experts, this guide will help you explore everything you need to know about oil leak or fluid leak repair.

Let’s get started.

Common Oil Leak Causes | Why Is My Car Leaking Oil?

If you notice your car leaking oil, understanding the root cause is crucial for getting it fixed. Here are some common reasons why your car can be leaking oil:

  • Worn-Out Gaskets

Gaskets serve as seals between various parts of your engine, and they can wear out over time. Since your engine has several gaskets, any of them could be the source of an oil leak. Common gaskets that can be to blame include:

  • Valve cover gasket
  • Timing cover gasket
  • Cylinder head gasket
  • Oil pan gasket

Pinpointing which gasket is causing the issue can be tricky without proper expertise. It’s best to have a professional check it out.

  • Cracked or Damaged Oil Pan

If you see a big puddle of oil under your car, the oil pan can be the cause. Positioned under your vehicle, the oil pan is vulnerable to damage from road debris, rocks, or curbs. A crack or puncture in the oil pan creates a way for oil to escape, and even a dent can mess with the seal around the drain plug, leading to leaks.

  • Loose or Worn-Out Seals

Your engine also has several seals that keep oil in its proper place. If these seals become loose, dry out, or get damaged, they can start to leak.

Two common seals that can cause trouble are the crankshaft seal and the camshaft seal.

  • Crankshaft seals are located at both ends of the crankshaft. When these seals fail, you might notice oil collecting under your engine or dripping from the front or rear.
  • Camshaft seals can leak in engines with timing belts, leading to oil pooling under the car or even smoke from the engine.

These types of leaks can be hard to identify on your own, so it’s a good idea to have a professional diagnose the problem.

  • Worn or Damaged Oil Filter

The oil filter is designed to keep your oil clean by filtering out contaminants. However, if the filter is clogged, damaged, or incorrectly installed, it can cause oil to leak around the filter area.

  • Loose Drain Plug

The drain plug is removed during every oil change to let out the old oil. Because it’s frequently handled, it can sometimes become loose, especially if it wasn’t tightened properly after the last oil change.

In some cases, the gasket or seal around the plug can wear out, causing leaks. Fortunately, this is an easy fix—just tighten the plug or replace it with a new one if necessary.

  • Overfilled Oil in Engine

While keeping your oil level in check is important, overfilling your engine with oil can actually cause problems. Too much oil can create excess pressure, leading to leaks from gaskets and seals that weren’t designed to handle the added stress.

How to Fix an Oil Leak | Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Dealing with a car oil leak can be frustrating, but you can tackle it yourself with the right approach. Here’s a simple guide to help you fix that oil leak in 9 easy steps:

1. Find the Source of the Leak

First things first, you need to figure out where the oil is coming from. Take a look under your car to spot any oil drips. Sometimes, you need to clean the engine to see things clearly.

If it’s hard to find, using a fluorescent dye with a UV light can help you trace the leak.

2. Replace Worn Gaskets and Seals

If you discover that the leak is due to a worn-out gasket or seal, you’ll need to replace it.

This can involve removing parts like the valve cover or oil pan to install a new gasket or seal. It’s important to ensure these are properly fitted to avoid future leaks.

3. Check and Fix the Oil Drain Plug

Sometimes, a loose or damaged oil drain plug is the culprit. If it’s loose, tighten it up. If it’s damaged, replace it with a new one, making sure to tighten it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

4. Repair or Replace a Damaged Oil Pan

If your oil pan is cracked, you’ll need to either repair or replace it.

Small cracks can be fixable with welding, but if the damage is severe, it’s better to replace the oil pan entirely to avoid further issues.

5. Inspect and Replace the Oil Filter

Take a close look at the oil filter. If it’s damaged or wasn’t installed correctly, it could be causing the leak. If needed, replace the oil filter with a new one, and make sure it’s securely fitted.

6. Check for Corrosion or Rust

Look for any signs of rust or corrosion on metal components. If you find any, clean and treat the affected areas to prevent further damage. Rust can worsen over time, leading to more significant issues if not addressed.

7. Manage Excessive Oil Pressure

If you’re dealing with unusually high oil pressure, it could be causing the leak. It’s best to have a professional mechanic check this out, as it might require replacing the oil pressure relief valve to fix the issue.

8. Keep an Eye on Oil Levels

Always make sure your car has the right amount of oil. If you’ve got too much oil, drain the excess to avoid pressure build-up that could lead to leaks.

9. Use a Stop-Leak Additive

In some situations, adding a stop-leak product to your oil can provide a temporary fix until you can get professional help. This isn’t a permanent solution, but it might buy you some time.

However, if you’re not confident in your ability to fix an oil leak on your own, it’s always a good idea to get professional help. An expert mechanic can ensure the leak is fixed properly, saving you time and hassle in the long run.

How All Aspect Motors Can Help You

We offer car oil leak repair services that are quick, efficient, and thorough. Our expert mechanics are trained to handle all types of car leaking oil issues, ensuring your vehicle is back on the road in no time.

Whether you need a simple oil change or a more complex fix for engine oil leaks, our team has the expertise to get the job done right. We also offer a wide range of other services, including:

Is your car leaking oil?

Contact All Aspect Motors | Get Your Leaky Engine Fixed Today

If your car is leaking oil, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. At All Aspect Motors, we offer top-notch car oil leak repair services that can save you from costly repairs down the line.

We’re dedicated to providing reliable and professional car repair services across WA. Our experienced mechanics specialize in everything from oil changes to complete engine repairs, ensuring your vehicle gets the care it deserves.

Don’t let oil leaks damage your car!

Get Free Appointment Now!

We’ll handle the rest, ensuring your car gets the expert attention it needs.

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