Is My Car Leaking Engine Oil?

Without engine oil, your car’s performance will drop - and you could be in for some expensive repairs.

That’s why it’s so important that you have an oil leak checked out and repaired at the first sign of trouble.

Read this blog to find out if your car is leaking engine oil, why this happens, and how much you can expect to pay for a repair.

 

 

Is My Car Leaking Engine Oil?

Your car may be leaking engine oil if you’ve noticed a puddle of light brown, black or amber fluid under it.

If so, then it’s likely that you have an oil leak – but that’s not the only symptom to look out for.

 

6 Signs You Have an Engine Oil Leak

Any of the following warning signs can indicate that your car has an oil leak:

• Brown, black or amber fluid under your car
• Blue smoke coming from the engine
• A burning oil smell
• Engine overheating
• Car leaking oil after an oil change
• An illuminated oil pressure light

If the fluid underneath your car feels slick and is difficult to get off your fingers, you probably have an oil leak.

 

Why Is My Car Leaking Oil?

Common areas for oil leaks include the following:

• Oil pan
• Valve cover gasket
• Oil filter
• Oil drain plug
• Seals and gaskets
• PCV valve

It could be that one of these parts needs tightened or replaced if it’s damaged, worn out, or leaking.

There is no one way to approach fixing an engine oil leak. This will depend on what is causing the leak in the first place.

To find an oil leak, crawl under your car and carry out a visual inspection to try and find the source of the leak.

You can also measure your oil levels with a dipstick – low engine oil suggests a leak is present.

Blue smoke coming from the bonnet whilst driving suggests that oil is leaking into the engine.

There could be excessive pressure in the lubrication system, due to a build-up of debris.

You should only try to fix an oil leak if you have mechanic experience.

Otherwise, you should leave this job to the professionals.

 

Why Is My Car Leaking Oil After an Oil Change?

Your car can leak oil after an oil change for several reasons:

• An old or incorrect oil filter is used
• The oil filter housing is loose or damaged
• The oil pan is damaged
• The drain plug is faulty
• Incorrect installation of the oil filter
• Damaged or cracked seals and gaskets
• The oil is overfilled

You should have your car checked and repaired by a mechanic as soon as possible if it’s leaking oil after an oil change.

 

Is a Car Oil Leak Dangerous?

A car oil leak can be dangerous as it can pose various health, safety, and environmental threats.

Driving with an oil leak can be a fire hazard, which is why you must have any oil leaks checked out right away.

You may think it’s okay if only a little oil leaks, but this can lead to an expensive repair if left unchecked.

 

How Much Does an Oil Leak Repair Cost?

Having an oil leak repaired can cost you anywhere from £80 to upwards of £700.

The cost to repair an oil leak can vary, depending on your vehicle’s make and model, and the severity of the issue.

There may only be a minor problem to fix, or the mechanic may need to take your engine apart entirely.

 

 

Don't hesitate to book a repair if you suspect an oil leak is present.

After the repair, be sure to use quality oil in your car to ensure proper lubrication and extend the lifespan of your car’s engine.

 

FAQs