If you think your car is leaking oil when parked, this needs to be inspected and fixed by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.
Read on and find out what to when your car is leaking oil, and how to prevent future leaks.
Signs Your Car Is Leaking Oil
If you notice any of the following warning signs - either when parked or whilst driving - you may have an engine oil leak.
Blue Smoke Coming from Your Exhaust Pipe
Both an external and internal oil leak will cause blue smoke to come from your exhaust.
As the engine gets hot whilst the car is running, an oil drip onto the engine will cause the dark blue smoke which you may see from your exhaust.
Smell of Burning Oil
You may smell burning oil after parking your car.
This may mean that oil has leaked or is leaking onto the hot engine.
You should pull over immediately and leave your car if you ever notice a burning smell while driving.
An Overheating Engine
The vehicle’s engine can overheat because of an oil leak, especially if the oil is low.
Engines need oil for their parts to stay lubricated while running.
A lack of oil will cause the engine will start overheating when there is inadequate lubrication.
Car Leaking Oil When Parked After an Oil Change
If you notice an oil leak under your car, then this could be related to a recent oil change.
It could be that the oil filter might not have been properly put back in place, or it may be damaged.
Another possibility is a loose or broken oil filler cap.
The drain plugs or gaskets might have been left loose or over-tightened, or you may have a problem with your rear main seal.
A leak may be a sign that your car needs to undergo an oil change.
The vehicle may have shielding underneath that stops the oil from dripping onto the ground by containing it.
You won't be able to see the oil dripping, and this can hide a major oil leak.
A low oil level indicator may be a warning signal for such vehicles.
An oil-stained engine should be examined for leakages.
A mechanic will be able to determine the source of the fluid leak for you.
How to Prevent a Future Oil Leak
To prevent an oil leak from occuring in the future, there are a few things you can do.
You should never ignore car problems for long, as all your vehicle's parts are interconnected.
The fault of one part will affect the others, and procrastinating will only put additional strain on other vital components and increase your repair bill.
You should also have your oil replace regularly so that a mechanic can examine the engine and any parts that utilise oil.
Scheduling regular car services and repairing and replacing old parts at the appropriate intervals can also help you to minimise the likelihood of leaks.
A trained mechanic will know exactly where to start and what to do if you suspect your car is leaking oil.
Whether your car needs a simple oil change or a larger job like an oil pump replacement, taking your car to a qualified mechanic is the best way to ensure your car gets the care it needs.
