When you notice a black stain under your car, you may consider using an oil leak sealer product. After all, an oil leak repair can be expensive. Furthermore, using seal oil leak products appears to be a convenient and affordable solution.
Oil Leak Sealer Products May Not Do All They Claim
The longer you own your car, the more likely parts will fail, allowing seepage. Since an oil leak repair can be costly, some car owners look for a cheaper solution. For several decades, manufacturers have offered stop leak products.
Early oil stop leak products were particle-clogging formulations. Particles suspended in the fluid would plug gaps and prevent oil from seeping out. The problem with these products is that they would clog other parts of the engine, too.
Modern oil stop leak products work on the theory that most leaks occur due to aging seals and gaskets. These products contain chemicals that penetrate the components to swell and rejuvenate them. However, not all the brands work as they claim.
One Youtuber conducted a few experiments to determine how these products seal leaks and protect engines. According to the results, most stop leak products didn’t perform as claimed. Moreover, the experimenter warned, the only way to fix an oil leak is the proper way, by repairing it.
Shortcomings Of An Oil Leak Sealer
Automakers choose rubber for seals because of its durability, flexibility, and temperature resistance. However, repeated exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and oxygen can cause degradation. Generally, using a stop leak product with a plasticizer can rejuvenate rubber, returning it to like-new condition.
Yet, a plasticizer has a limited lifespan. Seals will eventually become hard and brittle once again. Depending on the severity of the leak and the condition of your engine, the leak sealer may last several weeks. Using a stop leak product is a temporary solution to a problem that requires a professional repair.
Another problem with using these products is the location of the leak. While many seepages occur at seals and gaskets, your car can develop leaks in other places. These problem areas require the installation of a new part to fix the problem.
- Broken oil plug
- Damaged oil pan
- Incorrectly installed/clogged oil filter
Maintenance Can Help Prevent Leaks
While a small oil leak may seem unimportant, it can easily grow into a big problem. Addressing the issue right away may save you money on extensive repairs. Additionally, changing your engine oil according to the manufacturer’s schedule can help prevent leaks.
Often, oil leaks start small. Regularly changing your oil also allows your technician to look for signs of seepage. By catching a leak early, you may avoid expensive repairs.
Plus, many good quality engine oils contain additives to preserve and renew the flexibility of seals and gaskets. Furthermore, oil indirectly protects these parts from extreme temperatures by cooling the engine.
Finally, driving with dirty oil can put extra pressure on gaskets. As it ages, motor oil will become dirty, affecting its viscosity. Thicker oil can add extra pressure to seals and gaskets, weakening them.
FAQs About Engine Oil Leaks
Have you noticed a black stain underneath your car? Don’t wait until you have a major catastrophe on your hands. Bring your vehicle to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville for a diagnosis. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about oil leaks.
Does Synthetic Motor Oil Cause Older Engines to Leak?
Synthetic motor oil, like conventional, begins as crude oil. Unlike conventional, synthetic undergoes a chemical-engineered process. Upon completion, synthetic oil molecules are nearly the same size and structure. Comparatively, conventional oil has molecules with different sizes, shapes, and structures.
Tiny cracks in seals allow the smaller synthetic molecules to pass where larger conventional oil molecules cannot. Hence, switching to synthetic may give the false appearance of creating a leak.
Additionally, the detergents in many synthetic oils are better at cleaning away sludge than conventional oil. Using synthetic oil in an older engine may strip away sludge deposits, acting as seals.
Can You Drive With An Oil Seal Leak?
Leaking oil means your engine will be operating with low oil levels. This means engine parts will have less lubrication and experience increased friction. The engine will have to work harder to move the car, resulting in decreased efficiency. Less lubrication also means more wear and tear on parts.
Oil also helps remove heat from the engine. Low oil levels combined with increased friction are a recipe for overheating. Finally, dripping oil in the engine can cause an engine fire under certain circumstances.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix An Oil Seal Leak?
An oil leak repair can range from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on the location and severity. For example, replacing the crankshaft seal is a labor-intensive job, while replacing an oil pan plug is not.
When you bring your car to Xpress Lube, we’ll give you an estimate upfront before we begin any work.
Where Can I Find A Car Repair Shop To Fix My Oil Leak?
For over 25 years, Xpress Lube has been helping car owners maintain their vehicles. We have ASE-certified mechanics and certified NC inspection technicians as well as support staff. Trust us for quick and reliable car, van, SUV, and truck repair services.
When you have an oil leak, don’t use an oil leak sealer product. Instead, call Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville at 336-904-6319 to make an appointment. We’ll fix your leak and have you back on the road in no time.
