It’s quite frustrating and messy to find out that your car leaking oil when parked. You go outside in the morning and notice a dirty, oily puddle under your car, and wonder what just happened? The good news is that you are not the only one, and there is a reason behind your car releasing liquids. Thus, when you see oil leaking under car, it means that something is allowing your engine’s oil to escape the sealed system in which it is supposed to function.
Common Reasons For A Car Leaking Oil When Parked
Clearly, engine oil was not designed to escape – the point is for it to stay in the system and lubricate and protect internal components. Therefore, when you spot your car leaking oil when parked, it means that the gasket, seal, or component that prevents leaks is no longer functional. Leaks never happen by accident – they are often caused by wear, age, heat or mechanical issues. The following are the common car leaking oil causes:
1. Worn-out gaskets and seals – Over time, gaskets like the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket become brittle and start to seep.
2. Loose or missing drain plug – After an oil change, if the plug isn’t tightened properly, oil will slowly leak out.
3. Cracked oil pan – Hitting debris or a curb can cause small cracks in the oil pan, leading to a steady leak.
4. Faulty oil pressure switch – If the switch that monitors oil pressure goes bad, oil can leak around its base.
5. Damaged oil filter housing – Sometimes, the filter or housing can loosen or develop cracks, letting oil escape.
Sometimes you might find your car leaking oil from front. Based on the puddle’s position, you can speculate where the leak is coming from. If you notice oil at the front, there might be something wrong with the timing cover or crankshaft seals. If it seems like it’s coming from the middle or the rear, then the oil pan or drain plug is the probable cause.
How to Check for Car Leaking Oil When Parked
When your car leaking oil from bottom of engine gets apparent, you need to take a closer look. Here’s a quick checkup to do until you get to the mechanic.
Before you proceed, make sure to park your car on a level surface, engage the handbrake, and wait for the engine to cool down. Then, cautiously crawl under the car, or use a flashlight, and look for fresh, wet spots around the oil pan, filter, or gasket areas. Engine oil is typically amber to dark brown, while the transmission liquid is reddish. Also, notice if the oil level on the dipstick has dropped. If you have the oil level way below the minimum, your car leaks oil after driving or even while it’s parked.
Also Read: How to Stop an Oil Leak in Your Car?
What If You Notice Car Leaking Oil When Running?
Sometimes, leaks don’t show up until the engine is hot. That’s because heat causes expansion, which can make seals open slightly or pressure build up inside the engine. So if you notice your car leaking oil when running, it could mean one of the following:
1. Gaskets that expand and fail when the engine heats up.
2. Oil cooler lines or hoses are leaking only under pressure.
3. Seals that only leak after a long drive.
How Mechanics Detect Car Leaking Oil From the Bottom or Front
If you take your car to mechanics in Perth, they’ll use a mix of visual inspections and diagnostic tools. Many professionals apply UV dye to the oil and use a special light to see exactly where the leak starts.
An experienced technician at an auto care shop Perth can determine if the problem lies with the gasket, oil filter, or a worn-out component. Sometimes, a full car engine service Perth might be suggested, especially if the engine hasn’t been cleaned or serviced in a long time.
If the leak appears after an accident or if you’re unsure of the car’s maintenance history, getting a pre purchase vehicle inspection or a vehicle check before buying can help you avoid future headaches.
These inspections can reveal existing or potential oil leaks before you invest in the vehicle.
Why Does the Car Leak Oil After Driving?
Leaks can be sneaky – they don’t show while driving, but can still drain significant oil over time. Keeping a close eye on your oil level and engine temperature can help prevent serious damage. If you find frequent low oil levels, visit experts in car engine repairs Perth to identify the issue.
And if you ever get stuck on the road, a professional towing company or the best tow truck company can ensure your vehicle reaches a trusted mechanic safely.
What To Do If You See an Oil Drip Under a Car
Spotting an oil drip under car doesn’t always mean panic. Follow these quick steps:
1. Check your oil level using the dipstick.
2. Call for assistance from a professional towing company if you suspect the leak is major.
3. Once stranded, reach out to the best tow truck company near you. The tow truck can pick up your car and take it to the nearest workshop or garage. The towing won’t exacerbate the leakage. The best auto repair services may be able to help you determine the cause and fix the leakage.
Also Read: Can I Put Water Into My Car Radiator
When to Visit an Auto Care Shop Perth
If the car leaking oil underneath issue is small, you could postpone the work, but you must get it repaired in time. A local auto care shop ensures that professionals will quickly seal and replace the necessary parts. Many auto engine repairs are easy to perform, which involve changing gaskets and fixing the oil filter housing.
Preventing Future Oil Leaks
Prevention is always better than repair. Keep your engine healthy by:
1. Schedule regular car engine service Perth sessions.
2. Replace gaskets and seals as soon as they start to wear.
3. Check your oil level and colour regularly.
4. Use the manufacturer-recommended oil grade.
Conclusion
When you notice your car leaking oil when parked, it’s your vehicle asking for attention. Whether it’s a minor gasket leak or a more serious issue like a cracked oil pan, getting it checked early makes all the difference. From identifying an oil drip under car to fixing oil leaks, timely diagnosis saves your engine, your wallet, and your peace of mind.
FAQs
1. Why is my car leaking oil when parked?
Answer: 1
It usually means a gasket or seal has worn out, allowing oil to escape. Sometimes, a loose drain plug or filter can also cause leaks when the engine cools down.
2. Is it safe to drive with oil leaking under the car?
Answer: 2
It’s not recommended. Leaking oil can lead to low lubrication and cause engine damage. Always check the oil level before driving.
3. How much does it cost to fix a car leaking oil from bottom?
Answer: 3
It depends on the cause. Minor leaks are inexpensive, while major repairs like oil pan or gasket replacement can be more costly.
4. What should I do if my car leaks oil after driving?
Answer: 4
Check the oil level immediately. If it’s low, avoid driving and contact an auto care shop in Perth or mechanics in Perth for inspection.
5. Can a pre-purchase vehicle inspection detect oil leaks?
Answer: 5
Yes, a pre purchase vehicle inspection or vehicle check before buying helps identify leaks, ensuring you don’t buy a car with hidden repair costs.