Why is my Car Leaking Oil When Parked

Did you find a black or brown liquid forming underneath your car no matter where you park? Are you smelling oil before starting your vehicle? Are your oil levels low and your engine temperature rising high?

You likely have an oil leak if you’re relating to any of these questions. Not only does this leave unsightly stains while you park, but unresolved oil leaks lead to bigger issues. So let’s learn about the usual suspects behind oil leaks, how to identify a leak, when to call the experts offering oil change and tire repair near me, and more. 

5 Common causes of oil leaks

If your car is leaking oil, your best option is to first find the underlying problem causing the leak. 

• Heads up: It might be trickier than it looks, but if you’re still having trouble, here’s some of the more common causes:
• Bad Engine Gasket or Oil Pan: Located at the bottom of the engine, these components are vulnerable to wear and tear from road debris and can develop leaks.
• Bad Rings or Seals: These are designed to prevent oil leaks but can fail due to wear, allowing oil to escape.
• Filter Issues: If you delay oil changes, the filter can wear out, leading to contaminated oil that can damage seals and cause leaks.
• Poor Installation: Errors during installation, like over-tightening gaskets or valves, can result in leaks.

Regular maintenance and timely replacements can prevent these issues and keep your vehicle running smoothly.

What are the signs and symptoms of an oil leak?

Some prominent signs of an oil leak include:

• Blue smoke from the exhaust may signify oil getting into the exhaust manifold.
• If the engine temperature gauge is going up, it is indicative that the oil levels are low, causing your engine to overheat.
• The smell of burning oil indicates that oil has leaked into the engine and burned.
• Some oil leaks are difficult to detect and may not result in puddling under the car.  

In this case, you must develop the habit of regularly checking your car’s oil levels. If the levels are constantly low, then it could indicate an issue. 

Diagnosing and fixing the issue

Identifying and resolving an oil leak is tricky, but some visible signs, such as puddling oil or a distinct oil smell after driving, can give you an idea of the issue. While you might spot the problem, getting a professional car diagnosis and repair expertise is essential for more complex oil leaks. 

At Premium Auto Services, our mechanics specialize in accurately identifying the issue and providing the best solutions to confidently get you back on the road.

How to prevent future oil leaks?

With certified and insured professionals by your side, preventing oil leaks is easier than you might think! The best way to avoid oil leaks is to change your car’s oil per the manufacturer’s recommendations.  It also keeps the vehicle up-to-date on all its other recommended maintenance. 

At Premium Auto Services, we conduct a multi-point inspection of your car to check the parts or components that need to be addressed at present or in the future.

“Preventative maintenance” isn’t just another fancy term. Investing time and effort in keeping your car well-maintained reduces unexpected issues and the need for repairs over time. With a trusted partner in automotive care, you can count on the proficient team to avoid any potential problems, keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years. 

When to seek professional help? 

While it’s okay to drive with an oil leak problem for short distances until you schedule a professional car service, it is not something you want to postpone. What may seem like a small issue could become bigger if it’s not properly addressed. That’s why you must make a service appointment to properly identify and repair the issue at the first sign. 

If the oil leak is not addressed, it could lead to an overheated engine, extensive staining to your garage or driveway pavement, engine damage, and sometimes even a vehicle fire. If the leak becomes too significant, it could also be an environmental hazard, with any runoff being washed into water bodies.

The bottom line

Dealing with an oil leak can be a headache; however, with Premium Auto Services at your side, you can relax knowing your car is in expert hands. So, call us today to kick that unpleasant oil smell and the pavement stains. Schedule a service visit for oil change and tire repair near me to identify the root of the problem. Whether it’s a small fix or a more complex issue, we’re ready to get you cruising again in no time.