Engine oil circulates through various parts of the engine lubricating and removing heat. As it travels along its route, it passes gaskets and seals designed to keep the oil inside the engine. However, these components crack and shrink with age and eventually fail allowing oil to leak. Instead of trying to figure out how to fix an oil leak, visit Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
How To Fix An Oil Leak in These Steps
Sometimes, you might see black liquid on your driveway or your garage floor. Other times, you may only discover a leak when you check your oil. Nevertheless, once you know you have a leak, fix it right away by following these steps:
- Find the Source
Typically, motor oil can leak from several different places in your engine:
- Valve cover gasket
- Oil drain plug/pan gaskets
- Crankshaft seals
- Camshaft seals
- Timing cover gasket
- Cylinder head gasket
Thus, it’s necessary to inspect the underside of your car as well as under the hood for oil stains. Sometimes, a small leak can be difficult to locate.
- Fix The Leak
Once you find your leak, you’ll need to fix it. At times, your leak repair may be an easy one like replacing a broken oil plug. However, some fixes can be difficult and time-consuming. For example, replacing the crankshaft’s rear seal usually requires the removal of your transmission and exhaust.
- Fill Oil To The Appropriate Level
After repairing your leak, add oil to return to the optimal level. Begin by adding about ½ of a quart and recheck your levels. Continue to gradually add oil until reaching the “full” marking on the dipstick.
- Test Your Repair
You’ll need to run the engine to ensure you’ve fixed your leak properly. Start the car and let the car idle for about 10 minutes. This gives the oil time to circulate throughout the engine. Finally, turn off your car and let the engine cool before rechecking for leaks.
Oil Leak Symptoms
Usually, oil leaks are very common and often start small worsening over time. Often, you can discover them by looking for these signs:
- Low Oil Levels
As part of your car’s maintenance, you should check your oil monthly. Typically, consistently measuring a low level on a dipstick is an indication of a problem.
- Oil Stains On Your Driveway/Garage Floor
If you see dark colored spots underneath your car, it could be oil. Engine oil will feel slippery to the touch with a slight petroleum smell.
- Under The Hood
A leak under the hood will be evident by wet spots or residue. You may also see stains on top of the engine block or around the valve cover.
- Unusual Odor
Leaking oil can drip on hot engine parts creating a smoky acrid smell. Anytime you have an unusual odor, you should have your car checked.
Oil Leak Repair Costs
Car repair costs have 2 components: parts and labor. Sometimes a part can be inexpensive, but due to its location in the engine, very labor-intensive. Thus, repair costs can range from a hundred to thousands of dollars.
Another consideration is the damage leaking oil inflicts on other components. Motor oil degrades rubber causing deterioration of hoses and seals. Additionally, oil can drip into your starter or alternator eating away at electrical components.
FAQs
Learning how to fix an oil leak looks a lot easier on a video than actually doing it. Instead, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville for a professional repair. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions related to oil leaks.
Should I Use A Stop Leak Product?
Regrettably, an oil leak sealer product sold by many auto parts stores isn’t a good option. First, using any stop leak product is only a temporary solution. A lasting repair is to replace the faulty part.
Moreover, using an oil leak sealer can cause additional problems. It may clog narrow passages in the engine preventing oil from flowing freely. Consequently, components won’t be properly lubricated leading to more expensive repairs.
Is It Safe To Drive A Car With An Oil Leak?
A leak means you won’t have the proper levels of oil for lubrication allowing surfaces to rub. Of course, this increases friction and the risk of overheating. Your engine will also have to work harder to compensate for the additional resistance caused by friction. Hence, you’ll notice a drop in fuel efficiency. Plus, parts will wear out faster resulting in higher repair costs.
Furthermore, leaking oil is a fire hazard and can ignite when it reaches 300-400° F. Generally, most engines typically run at about 220° F. However, some exhaust parts could potentially reach temperatures hot enough to ignite dripping oil.
With The Cost Or Repairs So High, Can I Fix An Oil Leak?
Replacing a broken oil plug is a simple repair almost anyone can do. However, replacing seals and gaskets is more complicated. Moreover, you may have multiple oil leaks.
When you need a mechanic near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. We’re a locally owned, full-service auto repair shop serving the following areas in the NC Triad area:
- Kernersville
- Winston-Salem
- High Point
- Walburg
- Oak Ridge
- Walnut Cove
- Jamestown
- Greensboro
From maintenance to repairs and car cleaning, we’re your one-stop shop for everything car-related. Call us at 336-904-6319 or use our online form to make an appointment. Driving with any size oil leak is not a small matter. Let our experienced staff handle the repair for you.
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