You see a small black stain on your driveway and inwardly groan. Why is my car leaking oil? Unfortunately, oil leaks are one of the most common repairs all car owners face.
Common Leak Areas
As your car ages, certain common parts begin to fail. Often, you can answer the question, why is my car leaking oil by examining these particular areas:
- Failing Oil Seals
Excessive heat can cause early degradation of the seal material by hardening or softening it. This reduces its ability to sustain a fluid tight barrier. Additionally, different areas of the seal may expand at varying rates when exposed to heat. Thus, the seal may become deformed or misaligned, compromising the seal’s durability.
- Faulty Gaskets
Generally, gaskets function like seals, stopping fluids from leaking out. However, whereas seals form a barrier amid moving parts, gaskets go between non-moving parts. Yet, like oil seals, excessive heat damages this component.
- Broken Oil Plug
Repeated removal and reinstallation of the plug during oil changes can wear out the threads. Furthermore, overtightening the plug after an oil change can damage the seal.
- Damaged Oil Pan
Located at the bottom of the engine, the oil pan is susceptible to damage from road debris. Additionally, exposure to de-icing chemicals can hasten corrosion and rusting.
- Over/Under Tightening The Oil Filter
Typically, when you change the oil, you’ll also replace the filter. However, over-tightening the filter can crush the gasket, causing a leak. While under tightening will allow oil to leak.
Typical Oil Leak Symptoms
Usually, leaking oil leaking oil will manifest one of the following signs:
- Black stain/puddle underneath your car
- Illuminated dashboard light
- Unusual smell
- Dipstick indicates a low level
Generally, experts don’t recommend driving with an oil leak as it can lead to significant engine damage. Without proper lubrication, engine parts will experience increased friction and heat. This can cause accelerated wear and tear. Your engine may even overheat.
However, performing regular oil changes can help maintain your system. First, dirty oil may contain some contaminants that speed the deterioration of seals and gaskets. Also, during an oil change, your technician can inspect the engine for any signs of leaks or damage.
Factors Affecting The Price Of Your Oil Leak Repair
Some car owners may misunderstand the determining elements auto repair shops use to calculate a repair cost. While you may not like your bottom line, choosing a skilled mechanic near you offers assurance of a quality repair. Generally, auto repair shops use these determining factors to determine the cost to fix an oil leak:
- Make, Model, And Year Of The Vehicle
Some foreign and luxury automobiles have higher repair expenses due to specialized parts. Additionally, newer cars tend to be more complex than older models.
- Location Of The Leak
While some leaking seals are easily accessible, others require the removal of heavy components. For example, a drain plug is underneath your car making it easy to locate and replace. However, to access the crankshaft seal, you must remove the exhaust and transmission systems.
- Labor Rates Of The Auto Repair Shop
A key component in automobile repair costs is labor rates. These fees vary from shop to shop based on the technician’s training and experience. With automotive technology constantly changing, mechanics must invest in training to stay current.
- Quality of replacement part
When purchasing car parts, you can choose from OEM (original equipment manufacturer) or aftermarket. While aftermarket parts are usually cheaper, OEM parts maintain original factory quality.
- Additional engine damage
While low oil levels may cause metal parts to wear prematurely, oil also can leak onto other parts, damaging them. For example, oil can degrade rubber hoses and belts, causing them to soften and swell.
Why Is My Car Leaking Oil – FAQs
Oil leak sources can be frustrating to find due to hard-to-reach components. Instead of struggling to fix it yourself, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Below we answer a few frequently asked questions.
Are Oil Leak Sealers Safe To Use?
Oil leak sealers or stop leak products are additives designed to soften and recondition faulty gaskets and seals. For many car owners, the allure of an inexpensive, quick fix is very appealing. However, using these products may have serious negative consequences.
First, some brands may affect your engine oil’s lubrication and viscosity at cold temperatures. This can lead to additional wear and tear on engine parts. Second, these products only work for leaks occurring around oil seals and gaskets. Finally, these products are only a temporary fix. The best repair is to replace the failing part.
Is There A Particular Engine Oil That Can Help?
Older cars with 75,000 miles or more may benefit from using high mileage motor oil. It’s formulated with seal conditioners, anti-wear, and extra cleaning additives to help extend engine life.
Where Is The Best Mechanic Near Me To Fix An Oil Leak?
For over 25 years, Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville has been helping car owners maintain their vehicles. With competitive pricing, fast, and friendly service, we are one of Kernersville’s favorite auto repair shops. So, when you’re questioning, why is my car leaking oil, bring it to us!
We welcome walk-ins, but if you’re short on time you may want to book an appointment. You can do so by calling us at 336-904-6319 or using our online form.
