Engines Get Old
After many years of operation, an engine has a good chance of developing oil leaks. It’s easy to ignore the warning signs.
- Spot of oil on the garage floor.
- Smell of burning oil from the engine.
- Faint smoke coming from the engine as it idles.
Leaking oil:
- Damages belts and hoses, causing them to deteriorate faster than normal.
- Can cause a fire and destroy your engine, or your whole car, and/or garage.
- Is a hassle to clean up and can drain into the ground water.
Where in the Engine Do Oil Leaks Happen?
Gaskets wear out, plugs and hoses break, even metal can crack – all of which can lead to leaks. Some common causes of oil leaks:
- Oil filler cap
The gasket around the cap can wear out. Pressure in the engine as it is running can blow out oil all over the engine compartment. - Valve gasket (AKA head gasket)
The seal between the cylinder head and the engine block. - Oil filter
Oil filters wear out, become misaligned or loose. - Oil pan & drain plug
Bad weather, exposure to adverse environments, rough roads, debris – all can damage the oil pan and drain plug.
How to Prevent and Fix Oil Leaks
Check Oil Regularly
Use the dip stick at least once a week when the engine is cool, not right after a drive. If the level drops over time, there is a leak somewhere.
Go to AAMCO.
At AAMCO Minnesota our mechanics know what causes oil leaks, what to look for, and how to fix them.