Engine oil leaks can be a frustrating—and sometimes costly—issue. Not only can they leave unsightly stains all over your garage or driveway, but they can also lead to engine damage if they go unaddressed for too long. While some oil leaks can be the result of normal wear and tear, others are entirely preventable. Here are some of the most common causes of engine oil leaks and some tips on how to prevent them.
Oil Drain Plug
If the oil drain plug gasket is damaged or worn, or the plug wasn’t tightened down enough after an oil change, it won’t have a sufficient seal on the oil pan. The plug may need to be tightened up or the gasket replaced.
Leaky Oil Filter
Oil filters should be replaced at every oil change; if you changed your oil at home, however, you may have forgotten this step—or the new filter may not be installed correctly. It’s important to ensure the oil filter is screwed down tightly and that the o-ring or gasket is creating a good seal. Always check the old oil filter after removal to ensure the o-ring seal has stayed on the filter and not on the housing!
Worn Crankshaft or Camshaft Seals
Crankshaft or camshaft seals can dry out or become worn which causes them to allow the oil to escape. Keeping the oil replaced on a proper schedule will help prevent excessive wear and keep the seals soft.
Damaged Oil Pan
If you notice large puddles underneath your car, it could be due to a damaged oil pan. The pan is located under the vehicle, in a place that makes it susceptible to damage from rocks or debris in the road. A cracked or punctured pan will allow the oil to leak out, while a dented pan can affect the oil drain plug seal.
Preventing Oil Leaks
The best way to prevent oil leaks (and potential engine damage) is to have maintenance and inspections performed on your vehicle regularly. It’s especially important to keep up with your oil change schedule and be cautious about driving over things that could damage your oil pan, such as large rocks, branches, or other debris. It’s also a good idea to check your oil in between oil changes, as this will allow you to monitor the oil level and spot leaks or other issues (like dirty or contaminated oil) as they develop.
Oil changes are essential for many reasons. Clean oil keeps your engine’s moving parts well-lubricated and helps draw excess heat away from the engine. Oil changes also allow our technicians to inspect the various components of your engine to ensure nothing is worn or damaged. If we spot something that could cause an oil leak, such as a dented oil pan or worn gasket, we can replace it proactively.
Keeping your radiator in good condition is also vital for the health of your engine. If the coolant is old, it won’t provide protection against heat and overheating. Coolant leaks can also deplete the system and lead to overheating, so it’s important to address leaks quickly and have regular maintenance performed.
Visit Express Auto/RV Care Center for All Your Auto Care Needs
Oil leaks can cause major damage to your engine’s components if they’re not caught quickly enough. At Express Auto/RV Care Center, we offer complete care for your vehicle, including oil and filter changes, inspections, engine repairs, and diagnostics. With our 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and satisfaction guarantee, you can have peace of mind that your repairs will be completed correctly and meant to last. Stop by today or schedule an appointment at (928) 305-0767.
Want more great advice on saving money on car repairs? Order Russell McCloud’s book Knowledge is Power by clicking here
