How to Troubleshoot Leaking Oil

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Oil leaks are commonplace among car owners. Most of the time, the problem is something minor and easy to fix. Leaking oil, however, could be a sign that something is seriously wrong with your car's engine. Here are some basic guidelines for troubleshooting leaking oil before bringing in the professionals.

Steps

1. 1
   Check your oil. Open your car's hood, remove the cap to your oil reservoir and take out the dipstick. Wipe off any oil with a rag or paper towel so you can see the mark that indicates the proper oil level. "Dip" the stick into the oil reservoir and then take it back out. Look to see if the oil on the stick reaches the oil level mark.

   
   

   • Add oil if the reservoir is low or empty. Continue checking every 30 minutes. Rapidly leaking oil means there is a hole in your oil pan.
2. 2
   Use a fluorescent leak detection system. The combination of an ultraviolet (UV) or blue light and fluorescent dyes allows you to find small oil leaks. Add the dye to your oil reservoir and let your engine idle for 10 minutes. With the overhead lights off, shine the fluorescent light over your engine. Glowing areas indicate leaks.
3. 3
   Apply a thin coating of talcum powder around the engine. Drive your car for about 15 minutes. If there is oil on the surface, it will appear in the powder, allowing you to see its point of origin.
4. 4
   Test the oil line. Check that your oil reservoir is full and start your car. If the oil line is the source of your leak, oil will spurt out when force is used. Oil lines can be replaced or repaired with silicone tape.
5. 5
   Locate the oil pan gasket and remove any sediment. Put a bucket beneath the pan, remove the plug and drain all of the oil. Put the plug back on and fill the pan. If oil pools around the edges, the leak is in the gasket.
6. 6
   Look for multiple leaks. If the oil is leaking in more than 1 place, it may be due to crankcase pressure. Since crankcase pressure can have multiple causes, you should let your mechanic or an automotive repair shop diagnose the problem.
7. 7
   Consider "steam cleaning" your engine to make it easier to spot oil leaks. Wrap packing cellophane around the connectors, sensors and wiring harnesses and secure with duct tape. Spray degreaser on your engine, chassis and suspension and let sit for the time specified in the instructions. Using a steam cleaner, eliminate any grease or hardened dirt. Dry electrical components and sensors with compressed air.

   
   

Tips

• The best time to check your oil is after your engine has been running for about 10 minutes.
• Fluorescent leak detection systems are available at most auto parts stores.
• Fluorescent dyes remain in your car's system so you can recheck for leaking oil if necessary.
• Steam cleaner pressure washers can be rented at most home improvement stores.
• Use a degreaser that is safe for plastic and silicone.

Warnings

• Do not drive your car if the oil light goes on.

Things You'll Need

• Rags or paper towels
• Fluorescent dyes
• Ultraviolet or blue light
• Talcum powder
• Silicone tape
• Steam cleaner
• Degreaser
• Cellophane
• Duct tape
• Compressed air

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