Is Engine Oil Leak Covered Under Warranty?
2 Answers
Engine oil leaks are covered under warranty and fall under the repair category, which can address actual leakage issues. The warranty period varies depending on the vehicle make. Hazards of oil leakage: Insufficient oil can easily lead to bearing seizure, cylinder scoring, and in severe cases, crankshaft breakage and engine block damage. Excessive oil affects vehicle performance and may cause oil mixing and burning. Causes of engine oil leaks: 1. Poor quality, material, or craftsmanship of products (parts). 2. Improper assembly, unclean mating surfaces, or improper installation procedures leading to gasket damage or displacement. 3. Uneven tightening of fasteners, thread stripping, or loosening causing functional failure. 4. Wear and tear of sealing materials over time, aging, deterioration, or deformation leading to failure.
With years of experience in car repair, I often encounter engine oil leaks. Whether it's covered by warranty depends on the warranty period and the cause of the leak. If you bought a new car and it's still within the basic warranty period—typically three years or 100,000 kilometers—and the leak is due to manufacturing defects like a loose oil pan seal or crankshaft oil leakage, the manufacturer usually covers the repair costs. However, this is contingent on regular maintenance with official records; otherwise, dealers might blame improper handling. If the warranty has expired or the leak results from poor maintenance (e.g., not replacing the oil filter) or engine modifications, you'll likely have to pay out of pocket. I recommend checking your warranty manual or contacting the dealership directly. Don’t delay, as prolonged oil leaks can damage the engine and increase fuel consumption. Addressing it early saves both hassle and money. Also, regularly check for oil stains—don’t wait for the warning light to come on.
