If you see a puddle of oil on the ground under your car, don’t ignore it. An engine leak is a serious issue that must be fixed by a qualified technician ASAP before it causes damage to your vehicle’s engine. DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick, which sells the best-used cars in town and offers expert maintenance and repair services, provides a list of six possible causes of engine oil leaks.
A Dirty, Clogged, or Worn Oil Filter
Over time oil filters get dirty and clogged with dirt and debris and wear out. An oil filter that is dirty and clogged can’t work correctly and could cause oil to leak out. Your vehicle’s oil filter must be replaced every time the oil is changed to filter harmful contaminants out of the oil to prevent damage to the engine. Replace the oil and filter at the factory-recommended intervals to avoid unnecessary contamination and leaks.
A Misaligned Oil Filter
Another issue that could cause an oil leak is a misaligned oil filter. When the oil filter is replaced, it must be fitted correctly. If the filter is loose, misaligned, or improperly done, it will cause an oil leak. Ask a qualified technician to check and replace the oil filter to solve the problem.
A Loose or Broken Filler Cap
When the filler cap is loose or broken, it will cause an oil leak. The oil will not drip but spill out when your car is running due to the engine’s pressure. You will see puddles of oil on the ground directly under the engine. Check the filler cap, and if it’s loose, won’t stay in place, or you notice that it’s damaged, replace the filler cap with a new one.
A Broken Gasket
Gaskets are an essential vehicle component and must always be kept in good condition. Broken gaskets are a common cause of oil leaks. Leaks in the seals of the gasket are due to an increase of pressure caused by sludge buildup from engine oil and prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Ask a qualified technician to repair the problem ASAP to avoid extensive engine repairs.
Oil Pan Damage
Damage to the underside of your car can cause oil leaks. Driving your vehicle too fast over speed bumps or on rough roads full of stones could dent the oil pan or damage the seal. When a rock hits the oil pan hard enough, it could make a hole, causing an engine oil leak.
A Misaligned Oil Drain Plug
If a rock or debris hits the oil pan hard enough, it could misalign the oil drain plug. Leaks could also come from a loose oil drain plug or one with worn threads. If the leak is from the plug, you will notice fresh oil on the side and around the oil drain plug.
If you notice engine oil leaks, act fast and get repairs from a professional technician as soon as possible to prevent further damage and expensive repairs. Visit DARCARS Used Car and Service Center of Frederick today or schedule an appointment online and skip the lines! Our qualified and experienced technicians will expertly repair engine oil leaks and ensure your vehicle is in excellent running condition.
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