An oil leak can start small, but it should never be ignored. If you notice a dark puddle under your vehicle, a burning smell while driving, or a low oil level, the service team at Brown Nissan of Del Rio in Del Rio, TX, can help inspect the issue. Engine oil protects moving parts and helps control heat, so even a minor leak can lead to serious engine damage if it is not repaired.
Oil is an important part of the engine. It keeps parts moving and helps manage heat. When oil escapes, these systems begin to break down, and the situation gets worse over time.
How to Know If You Have an Oil Leak
A common sign of an oil leak is finding oil under a car after it is parked. Fresh engine oil is amber or light brown. Older oil looks darker and thicker. A spot on a driveway or garage floor is a signal that the car needs service.
Other warning signs include a low oil level on the dipstick or a burning smell while driving. Bluish smoke might come from the engine area. The oil pressure warning light may also turn on. Drivers should not ignore these signs even if the puddle is small.
What to Do If You Have an Oil Leak
The first step is to check the oil level. If the level is low, add the correct oil type. Adding oil is a temporary step and is not a fix. The driver must find the source of the leak and repair it.
Drivers should not travel long distances with an oil leak. Running an engine with low oil causes internal damage. This includes worn bearings or a seized engine. If a driver in the Del Rio, TX, area sees oil under their car, they should get a professional inspection.
Finding an Oil Leak
Finding the source of a leak is not always easy. Oil travels along parts before it drips down. A technician cleans the engine area and uses tools to trace the leak.
Common steps include checking the oil drain plug and the valve cover. The technician also looks at the oil pan and various seals. Professional help is necessary to find the leak and prevent more damage.
Common Leak Sources
A leaking valve cover gasket is a frequent issue. This happens as the part ages and cannot form a seal. Oil may drip onto hot parts and create a smell.
The oil pan gasket is at the bottom of the engine. It can fail due to age or road debris. A loose oil drain plug also causes leaks. This often happens if the plug is not tight after an oil change. Rear main seals and timing cover gaskets are harder to fix. The risk of an oil leak depends on how fast the driver acts.
If you suspect an oil leak, schedule service with Brown Nissan of Del Rio before the problem gets worse. Our technicians can inspect the engine, locate the source of the leak, and recommend the proper repair. Addressing an oil leak early helps protect your vehicle’s engine and gives you more confidence on the road in Del Rio, TX.
