Can You Still Drive with an Engine Oil Leak?

[Duarte]

You should not continue driving if there is an engine oil leak. An oil leak means the engine lubrication system has failed, and continuing to drive under such conditions can cause further damage to the engine. Oil leaks are usually caused by damage to components such as the engine cylinder head gasket, front and rear crankshaft oil seals, or camshaft oil seals. Here are the steps to address an engine oil leak: 1. Identify the leak location and clean the oil traces around it. 2. Start the engine and inspect the exact source of the oil leak. 3. If the oil pan gasket is aged, remove the oil pan, replace the gasket, and reseal it with adhesive. 4. Replace the drain plug washer if it has not been changed for a long time. The washer provides a sealing function and should be replaced regularly according to the maintenance schedule. 5. If any attached components are damaged, replace them with new ones. 6. If the oil pan drain plug is loose or damaged, tighten or replace it.