How can I stop engine oil leaks?
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on putting a stop to engine oil leaks!
A leaking engine can cause concern, but please don’t worry.
We’ve compiled practical steps and tips to help you tackle this issue head-on.
Please keep reading to protect your engine’s health and ensure a smooth ride ahead.
source: dreamstime
Locating/ Inspecting for Oil Leaks
Oil leaks can be annoying, but the key is finding where they come from.
Look for oil spots or puddles under your car in the engine area.
Keep an eye on your oil level, and if it suddenly drops, that’s a clue too.
Another trick is using a UV dye in your oil that lights up under special light, helping you spot exactly where the leak is coming from.
Reasons for Oil Leaks
Oil leaks usually happen for one of four reasons.
The top culprit is a worn-out engine gasket, which is like a seal that prevents fluids from escaping.
If it breaks, you might start losing oil.
Other less common reasons could be;
Oil filler cap
This is likely one of the less concerning oil leaks, occurring when the oil filler cap is not securely fastened.
You may notice oil puddles beneath your car, but the issue can be resolved by tightening the cap or replacing it if it’s damaged.
Valve Gasket
A valve cover shields the parts in the engine’s head, and a gasket seals the gap between the head and the cover.
If you see oil dripping from the top of the engine, it’s likely a leak from the valve cover gasket.
When this happens, it’s time to replace the gasket because it wears out over time.
Excess oil
Occasionally, an oil leak, including a turbo oil leak, might happen because there’s too much oil.
You can tell if this is the case when there’s an oil puddle under your car, but the engine oil light on the dashboard isn’t blinking.
Oil Drain Plug
If the drain plug is broken or old, it can make oil leak.
This usually happens when the plug or its seal isn’t changed during oil changes.
To prevent leaks, make sure the plug is tightened correctly.
You can find the oil drain plug at the bottom of the oil pan, underneath the vehicle.
These leaks are sometimes called oil sump leaks.
To figure out the reason for an oil leaks, please check out the above four areas for any issues.
Source- ohsbodyshop
How to fix or stop engine oil leaks
Although some oil leaks may require costly repairs, most can be fixed inexpensively in your garage or driveway.
A car jack, jack stands, torque wrench, and some particular additives or parts (such as a new oil pan) are all you need to fix your oil leak.
You can use one of these two main techniques to do it.
1. Using an Additive to stop engine oil leaks
Using a stop leak additive or a high mileage oil blend is an easy way to fix the leak by yourself.
These products can help your car’s rubber seals to become softer and more conditioned to prevent and stop further leaks.
You might need to drive for several hundred miles before the leak is totally sealed.
Then, you’ll discover how to cope with an oil pan leak and other kinds of oil leaks.
You should normally try to fix the leak by replacing components before applying stop leak.
2. Using tools to Fix the problems
In the case of an oil pan leak or any related issue, you can use tools more easily than you might expect, to fix them.
You just need some hand tools, a torque wrench, and a car jack and stands or some ramps.
First, lift the car safely with the jack so you can reach the oil pan.
Then, look for any loose bolts on the oil pan.
These bolts can get loose over time, and that causes leaks.
Tighten all the bolts on the oil pan, and then go to the timing belt cover and the valve covers.
Remember that some car models have a specific pattern and tolerance level for tightening bolts.
Refer to a service manual or repair guide for more details.
Ways to stop your car from leaking oil
- Change the oil and filter regularly to keep the engine healthy and avoid low-quality oil.
- Use the correct type of oil recommended in the owner’s manual to prevent constant oil leaks.
- Inspect your car regularly, either by yourself or with a mechanic, to catch and fix any leaks promptly.
- Ensure the oil is filled to the right level to prevent excess oil that can lead to leaks.
- Consider using additives like No Leak or Stop Leak for quick fixes. These additives can soften and condition old gaskets, preventing further leaks.
- If you’re not confident in identifying issues, consult a mechanic who can assess your car for any problems or leaks.
Conclusion
Oil leaks can be a common and irritating problem for cars.
Learn how to fix an oil leak on your own before you bring the vehicle to the garage and spend a lot on the repair.
Check everything from the oil cap and the gaskets to the oil pan.
Be sure to check and ensure that the leak is fixed after the repair.
You can manage any oil leak problem on your vehicle with some patience and knowledge.