The older a car gets, the more likely it is to leak a bit of oil. This is because gaskets and seals age and slowly allow oil to escape. Fluid leaking is not a massive deal, unless it’s a massive amount.
Oil dripping is pretty common, it can come from the head gasket, drain plug or any hoses and fittings that it circulates through.
We seriously recommend that any minor or major leaks are dealt with when the car is serviced. If you need to book your car in for a service then simply click here.
Can I drive with an oil leak?
If you have an exhaust leak then you can. Just be sure to drive to a garage that can fix it pronto. Exhaust gasses can be extremely harmful if inhaled.
If we’re dealing with oil or transmission fluid then it can be a different story. As long as the rate of the leak does not increase when the engine is on and the car is moving, and all fluids are topped off to the correct level, then you can drive for a short distance. This short distance should be to a garage to have it repaired.
If you see either blue, black or white smoke coming from the exhaust, get your car to a mechanic. It is most likely a serious internal leak.
What are common areas for oil leaks?
It depends on what kind of car, and what kind of engine and transmission. It’s a good idea to get a diagnostic check to make sure that the leak isn’t anything too serious.
Typically on an older car, you can expect oil to leak from your drain plug, timing cover, valve covers and oil filter and housing. There are plenty of places that oil can leak, as we said, gaskets, seals and fittings. They all age and wear out.
As for transmissions, they’ll leak around the bellhousing and hoses. Also where the transmission cooler lines enter and exit.
Radiator and cooling lines will leak around fittings, cracked hoses, water pump seals and heater hoses.
If you see a sign of an oil leak, like a puddle of oil, lower oil levels, oil dripping while engine running. You should get it fixed as soon as possible. You don’t want to risk damage, because that’s a bigger bill than a few gaskets and seals.
If you need any work done, or just want to make sure your car is in tip top shape, book it in with us. All you have to do is click here.