How to Fix Engine Oil Leaks? A Guide to Car Oil Leak Repair
Ever find a mysterious puddle of oil under your car? Not exactly the best way to start your day, right?
A car leaking oil isn’t just an annoying mess on your driveway. It’s a red flag indicating that your engine is in trouble. Because oil is the lifeblood of your engine. Ignoring it will lead to bigger and more expensive problems, like engine failure or overheating.
The good news? Most engine oil leaks can be fixed if you catch them early. Don’t know how to do it? We will teach you in this blog post.
At Schon Automotive, we know how frustrating car troubles are, and we’re here to make things easier. Our expert mechanics diagnose and fix engine oil leaks with expertise & advanced tools. So, your car can run smoothly and safely.
Let’s find out everything you need to know about car oil leak repair.
Is Your Car Leaking Oil? Why You Can’t Ignore It?
Driving with an oil leak isn’t just a messy inconvenience. It shows a problem under the hood and can lead to severe engine damage if left ignored.
Here’s why you should take it seriously.
Risk | Details |
Reduced Lubrication | Oil is essential for reducing friction between engine components. When oil levels drop due to a leak, metal parts can grind against each other, causing premature wear and overheating. |
Overheating & Engine Failure | Low oil levels increase heat inside the engine, leading to catastrophic failure on the road. |
Environmental Hazards | Leaking oil contaminates the environment, seeping into the soil and polluting the waterways. |
Fire Risk | If oil drips onto hot engine components, it can ignite, risking the safety of you & others on the road. |
Expensive Repairs | Ignoring a car oil leak repair can result in severe damage & costly repairs, like a full engine rebuild. |
Now moving towards the common culprits behind this issue.
What Causes an Engine Oil Leak?
Understanding why your car is leaking oil is the first step toward fixing it. Here are the most common causes:
1. Worn-Out Engine Gasket
Gaskets create a seal between different engine components.
Over time, they wear out due to extreme heat and pressure. If your engine oil leak originates from the valve cover or cylinder head, a degraded gasket is the cause.
2. Loose or Damaged Oil Drain Plug
The oil drain plug is located at the bottom of the engine’s oil pan. It allows mechanics to drain old oil during an oil change.
If it’s not tightened properly or is damaged, oil can seep out. Always check that the plug is secure and in good condition after every service.
3. Oil Pan Leak
Your oil pan holds the engine oil.
Over time, rough roads, speed bumps, or debris can cause it to crack or loosen. And oil seeps out from it. If you notice oil pooling beneath your car, check for the damage to the pan.
4. Worn or Improperly Installed Oil Filter
After a few thousand kilometres, the oil filter becomes damaged with dust & debris.
These blockages or a poorly fitted oil filter can cause leaks at the sealing point. Always change the oil filter timely and check its correct installation during oil changes.
5. Failing Oil Seals
Your engine has multiple oil seals that prevent leaks.
If they wear out or crack due to age, oil can seep through. The most common seal-related leaks come from the crankshaft or camshaft seals.
6. Overfilled Oil
Adding too much engine oil can also cause pressure buildup, leading to leaks.
This type of leak comes with a blue exhaust smoke & a strong burning smell. Always follow your manufacturer’s recommended oil levels to avoid excessive pressure.
7. Corroded or Rusted Components
Older vehicles develop rust and cause the weakening of metal engine components.
Cracks caused by rust in critical areas, like the oil pan and gaskets, lead to oil seepage. Regular maintenance can help prevent this.
8. Faulty Oil Pressure Relief Valve
The oil pressure relief valve regulates oil flow and pressure.
If it fails, excessive pressure can push oil through weak seals and gaskets, causing leaks. This leak can be identified by a high reading on your oil pressure gauge.
9. PCV System Issues
The Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) system prevents pressure buildup inside the engine.
If it gets clogged, pressure increases inside the crankcase. That forces oil out through seals and gaskets.
10. A Failing Filler Cap
The oil filler cap seals the engine’s oil system.
If it’s loose, cracked, or missing, oil can escape, creating a mess under the hood. Always keep your oil cap securely tightened.
Let’s find out how to pinpoint the exact source of trouble.
How to Inspect an Engine Oil Leak?
Before you fix an oil leak, you need to find its source. Here’s how to inspect your car & engine components.
Step | Explanation |
Look for Oil Spots | Park your car overnight on a clean surface and check for fresh oil stains in the morning. |
Check the Burning Smell | If you sense even the slightest burning smell while driving. It means oil is leaking into the engine parts. |
Pop the Hood | Look around the engine bay for any wet or dark spots that indicate leaking oil. |
Check the Oil Level | A sudden drop in oil level is a clear sign of a leak. Use the dipstick to monitor levels regularly. |
Use a UV Dye Test | If the leak isn’t obvious, add a UV dye to your oil and run the engine for a few minutes. Use a UV light to detect where the oil is leaking from. |
Once you have confirmed the oil leak and identified the damaged part. Now, it’s time to get ready for the repair.
Getting Ready for Car Oil Leak Repair
Before starting repairs, follow these preparation steps for a smooth procedure.
- Gather the tools required for the procedure. Including a wrench, jack stands, an oil catch pan, gloves, and safety glasses.
- Park your car on a flat surface and check its stability before lifting it.
- Let the engine cool down before starting the procedure. Start when it is cool to touch to avoid burns.
Now, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start the repair procedure.
Steps to Fix Engine Oil Leaks
Here are the steps required for an oil leak or fluid leak repair.
1. Tighten the Oil Drain Plug
If the leak is coming from the drain plug, simply tightening it will solve the problem. If damaged, replace it along with the washer.
2. Maintain Proper Oil Levels
Check for the overfilled engine oil. Keep the oil level according to the manufacturer’s recommendation to avoid extra pressure.
3. Replace a Faulty Oil Filter
A bad oil filter can cause leaks. Always install a high-quality replacement and tighten it properly.
4. Repair or Replace the Oil Pan
If your oil pan is cracked, use an oil-resistant sealant for minor fixes. If severely damaged, replacing it is the best option.
5. Deal with Corrosion or Rust:
If the oil leak is caused by corroded metal components of the engine. Clean, treat, and repair the affected areas to solve the problem.
6. Fix Gaskets and Seals
If the leak is coming from a gasket or seal, replacement is necessary. This job can be complex and can require removing engine components.
Safety Tips for Fixing Oil Leaks
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Use jack stands, not just a hydraulic jack, for stability.
- Dispose of the old oil properly at a recycling centre.
When to Call a Mechanic?
Some oil leak causes are easy to fix on your own, but not all. If you notice any of the following, it’s time to get professional help.
- A major leak that drains oil quickly
- Oil mixed with coolant (indicating a blown head gasket)
- Blue smoke from the exhaust (burning oil)
- A burning oil smell inside the cabin
Looking for Professionals to Fix Engine Oil Leaks?
Bring Your Car to Schon Automotive
Schon Automotive is your trusted mechanic in Perth for every type of car oil leak repair.
We offer professional car oil leak repair services for all makes and models. Our expert mechanics use advanced diagnostic tools to pinpoint the source of the leak. And provide effective and long-lasting solutions.
We believe in transparent pricing. Means no hidden costs or surprises. Just honest & high-quality service, saving you time and stress.
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