How to spot car oil leaks and what to do

Knowing what to do when your car has an oil leak is crucial for vehicle owners. We're here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you remain calm and in control.

Is your car leaking oil?

Seeing an unfamiliar puddle under your car can be alarming. But how do you know if your car is leaking oil and not another fluid? Identifying an oil leak is crucial for your car’s health and your peace of mind. Below, we’ll run you through the key indicators of an oil leak.

Oil leak symptoms: what to look for

There are several telltale signs to watch out for if you suspect an oil leak:

• Visible oil underneath the car: When you move your car, check for oily patches on the ground. These stains are usually brown or black. Make sure that the oil is actually coming from your car – e.g. if you’re using a public parking space, stains on the ground could have come from a previous vehicle.
• Marks around connectors: Inspect the engine bay for any signs of oil around the connectors and seals. These can indicate a leak.
• Blueish grey smoke: An internal oil leak might produce blueish grey smoke from the exhaust (for more details, see our article on blue exhaust smoke).
• Oil light: If your engine oil light comes on, it doesn’t necessarily mean damage has already occurred, but it’s a warning that shouldn’t be ignored.

What you should do when your car is leaking oil

Taking swift action can prevent further harm to your vehicle:

• Avoid driving: If you suspect a significant oil leak, it’s safer not to drive your car. Driving with low oil levels can cause serious engine damage.
• Call for help: Depending on the severity of the leak, you may need to have your vehicle towed to a garage. It's always better to seek professional advice.
• Clean up: If there’s oil on the ground, report it if it's in a public space to prevent environmental damage. On private property, clean it up using appropriate products to avoid slipping hazards and contamination. To clean up an oil leak, you can use an absorbent like cat litter or sawdust, followed by a degreaser like washing up soap and scrubbing brush to remove the last of the oil.

Common causes of vehicle oil leaks

The appearance and position of the oil leak can give clues about its cause:

• Sump gasket: Leaks near the bottom of the engine might suggest an issue with the sump gasket.
• Cam cover gasket: Leaks higher up could be due to a faulty cam cover gasket.
• Oil filter: A damaged or improperly installed oil filter can also cause leaks.
• Camshaft seal: Oil can leak from the camshaft seal if it becomes worn or damaged over time, or if it becomes brittle.
• Front and rear crankshaft: Front crankshaft oil leaks are usually evident around the engine drive pulleys, while rear crankshaft seals will show oil dripping from the gearbox bell housing.

What a garage will do to fix an engine oil leak

When you take your car to a garage:

• Inspection: The mechanics will investigate the source of the leak.
• Repair or replace: Depending on the issue, they will repair or replace the faulty parts.
• Testing: They’ll ensure the problem is fixed by running tests and checking for any further issues.

Short term fixes and risks of ignoring an oil leak

While waiting for professional help, consider these points:

• Off-the-shelf products: There are products available that claim to stop leaks, but they’re usually not a permanent fix. In fact, these typically won’t work on more severe leaks.
• Neglecting the fault: Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine damage, reduced performance, and costly repairs down the line.

Can I keep driving with an oil leak?

Driving with an oil leak is risky and can lead to significant damage. Even small leaks can worsen over time, and driving with low oil levels can lead to low oil pressure, which may cause severe engine damage. Additionally, leaking oil can harm the environment and create slipping hazards on the road. If you notice oil patches or the oil light comes on, it's best to address it immediately. To ensure your safety and avoid costly repairs, have your vehicle checked by a professional as soon as you suspect an oil leak.

Preventative measures to avoid oil leaks

Preventing oil leaks is all about regular maintenance and attention to detail:

• Regular oil changes: Ensure your car gets regular oil changes as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. Fresh oil is less likely to cause leaks.
• Check seals and gaskets: During routine maintenance, have a professional check the seals and gaskets for wear and tear. Replacing them before they fail can prevent leaks.
• Inspect oil filter: Make sure your oil filter is properly installed and in good condition. Have it replaced it during oil changes to avoid potential leaks.
• Monitor oil levels: Regularly check your oil levels to ensure there’s no sudden drop, which could indicate a leak.
• Use quality oil: Use the recommended type and grade of oil for your vehicle to ensure optimal performance and reduce the risk of leaks.
• Routine engine checks: Have your engine inspected regularly for any signs of wear or damage that could lead to leaks.

Remember, we're here to support you through any car troubles (including oil leaks) with our breakdown cover – simply report your breakdown via the app if you need help. With the right knowledge and actions, you can keep your vehicle in top shape and stay confidently on the road.