What are the causes of engine oil leakage in cars?
2 Answers
Engine oil leakage in cars can be caused by: 1. Aging or damage to the oil pan gasket; 2. Aging or damage to the gear cover; 3. Loose or damaged drain plug; 4. Poor sealing of the valve cover gasket; 5. Leakage from the front or rear crankshaft oil seal; 6. Poor sealing of the radiator gasket; 7. Poor sealing or aging of the oil filter base gasket. Engine oil, also known as motor lubricant, consists of base oil and additives, with base oil being the main component of the lubricant. The functions of engine oil include: 1. Cooling and temperature reduction; 2. Sealing and preventing leaks; 3. Cleaning; 4. Shock absorption and buffering; 5. Lubrication to reduce wear; 6. Rust and corrosion prevention; 7. Protection of components.
As an experienced driver with decades behind the wheel, I've encountered numerous oil leakage situations. The primary causes include loose or stripped oil pan drain plug threads - a common issue often resulting from improper tightening during the last service. Secondly, aged gaskets like valve cover gaskets or oil pan gaskets tend to crack and leak after prolonged use. Improper installation or physical damage to the oil filter can also cause leakage from that point. Additionally, faulty oil pressure switches and corroded oil line connections are other potential failure points. If left unrepaired, the oil level will progressively drop, potentially causing engine seizure due to lack of lubrication. My advice is to inspect these components during every oil change and address any issues promptly at a repair shop to prevent more costly damages.
