Why Your Car May Be Leaking Oil

If you have an oil leak, it's a sign that something in your car requires attention. Here are some of the most common causes of leaking oil and how to fix these issues.

A Worn Gasket

Gaskets are seals that keep your oil contained in your engine. When your gaskets wear out, it can cause an oil leak. Heat and pressure from the engine can wear down gaskets over time, so they need to be replaced. Inspect your oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, and cylinder head gasket, or take your vehicle to Auto Correct for our technicians to check.

Damaged Oil Pan

Because your oil pan sits in the bottom of your engine, road debris can create cracks and dents that lead to leaks. The oil pan holds the oil your engine needs, and damage to the pan causes leaks and even large oil puddles. Check to be sure the pan is not loose and simply need to be tightened, then get the pan replaced.

Oil Filter Issues

If your oil filter is not properly installed, it can create a leak. Oil filters  trap contaminants and keep your oil clean, but they can become clogged or damaged over time. To avoid this problem, make sure you replace your oil filter with every oil change.

Too Much Oil

If you overfill the oil in your engine, it creates too much pressure, causing the seals and gaskets to fail. This will create an oil leak. Be sure to adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended oil levels to combat this issue.

Loose Drain Plug

When you get an oil change, be sure your drain plug is tightly secured. If it’s too loose, your car may leak oil. There’s an easy solution to this problem — simply tighten the drain plug!

Oil Leak Diagnostics

Can’t find the cause of your oil leak? Stop by Auto Correct today. Our expert team can diagnose and resolve the source of your leak. Make an appointment today!