One of the most common causes of engine damage is oil leaks. Any leak can be devastating to your engine as well as dangerous. When searching for an oil leak repair near me, stop by Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
How to Tell You Need An Oil Leak Repair Near Me
A gas-powered car contains several different types of fluids to keep it running efficiently:
However, deteriorating seals, gaskets, and parts can allow fluid to seep out of its designated system. Leaks can occur in different places and reveal themselves by these signs:
- Puddle underneath the car
- Dashboard indicator light illuminated
- Oil on the engine
- Burning smell
Of course, any leak needs investigation as damage can occur without proper levels. Furthermore, driving with leaking fluid, like oil, is dangerous. In addition to damaging engine components, oil harms the environment. Rain will wash the oil into a storm drain where it can pollute waterways. Also, if oil gets hot enough, it will ignite.
Causes Of Oil Leaks
Oil leaks are quite common in vehicles and occur for a variety of reasons:
- Failing Seals And/Or Gaskets
Your engine contains many seals and gaskets that prevent fluids from leaking out between joined parts. Overtime, these gaskets and seals can deteriorate and fail allowing oil to leak out:
- Valve cover gasket
- Oil drain plug/pan gaskets
- Crankshaft seals
- Camshaft seals
- Timing cover gasket
- Cylinder head gasket
- Loose Or Damaged Oil Drain Plug
With its location at the bottom of the oil pan, the plug keeps oil inside the pan. For a secure fit, there’s also a washer and/or gasket. When it’s time to change the oil, you remove the plug to drain the lubricant. However, overtightening can damage the washer/gasket or the threads on the plug allowing oil to leak out.
- Cracked Oil Pan
Manufacturers locate the oil pan at the bottom of the engine, close to the road. Here, it’s susceptible to damage from road debris. Small rocks, sticks, and other debris can hit the pan cracking or puncturing it.
- Damaged Valve Cover
At the top of the engine bolted to the top of the cylinder head lies the valve cover. Its job is to protect the valves and prevent engine oil from leaking out. Sometimes manufacturers make this part out of plastic making it susceptible to cracking.
What To Do If Your Car Is Leaking Fluid
Some oil leaks can be quite slow, leading car owners to think it’s safe to delay servicing. However, leaks will worsen over time causing dangerously low levels and the possibility of an overheating engine.
Usually, failed seals and gaskets are the main cause of an oil leak. Yet, finding the right gasket or seal can be a messy and time-consuming task. Of course, once you locate the leak, you’ll also need to fix it. Instead, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville and let our experienced crew take care of it.
FAQs About Oil Leak Repair Near Me
Is your engine oil low and you suspect a leak? Why not bring your vehicle to Xpress Lube and one of our technicians will diagnose your problem. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about oil leaks and our auto repair shop.
Is It Safe To Use A Stop Leak Product?
Many big box auto parts stores carry these products as a good solution to fixing a small oil leak. These products contain special additives that cause seals and gaskets to swell and soften. However, these products can cause additional problems.
First, this solution only works if the problem is with a seal or gasket. Secondly, the additives can settle and clog up passages. Finally, a stop leak product is only meant as a temporary solution and not a long-term answer.
How Much Is The Average Oil Leak Repair Cost?
Often, the parts to fix an oil leak aren’t expensive. However, most oil leaks are time-consuming jobs requiring a lot of labor. Thus, prices range accordingly for the following repairs:
When you bring your car to Xpress Lube, we’ll give you an estimate before we begin working on your car. If you want, you’re free to bring your care elsewhere for oil leak repairs. However, we think you’ll love our friendly service and competitive prices.
What’s The Best Way To Stop An Oil Leak?
While you can’t always prevent an oil leak, following your vehicle’s maintenance schedule can help avoid many problems. First, fresh clean oil will keep your car running optimally. Furthermore, during your routine maintenance, your technician can inspect your engine. Often, a mechanic can spot a minor problem before it becomes a major repair.
After we change your oil, we’ll provide a courtesy check on other vital fluids:
- Engine air filter
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
Our crew has been helping car owners maintain their vehicles for over 25 years. From major repairs to servicing and car cleaning, we can handle everything car-related.
Suspect an oil leak? Call us at 336-904-6319 to make an appointment for one of our technicians to inspect your car. For an oil leak repair near me and a whole lot more, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
