What causes oil leakage from the valve cover gasket of the Lavida?
2 Answers
Oil leakage from the valve cover gasket of the Lavida is over 90% caused by the corrosion and aging of the oil seal. The leaked oil flows into the spark plug, so there is also oil in the spark plug. The solution is to replace it with a new oil seal. If the aged oil seal continues to be used, it may lead to major malfunctions. Below is additional information: 1. Automobile engine structure: In the general structure of automobile engines, the end of the valve is connected to the camshaft through a tappet or push rod; the movement of the valve is controlled by the camshaft, and the camshaft in modern engines is more commonly located at the top of the cylinder head. Therefore, the valve chamber is also commonly referred to as the camshaft chamber or the oil cavity of the cylinder head. Above the valve chamber is the camshaft cover, which, together with the cylinder head, forms a nearly enclosed cavity. There are also oil return passages, oil supply passages, and other oil circuits connected to other cavities. 2. Oil seal: An oil seal is a component in machinery used to prevent fluid (mostly lubricating oil) from leaking out at joints (mostly the mating surfaces of parts or rotating shafts). Sealing components used for static sealing and dynamic sealing (generally reciprocating motion) are called seals.
I've been driving a Lavida for over a decade, and valve cover gasket oil seepage is particularly common, mostly caused by aging and deformation of the gasket. Over time, the rubber hardens and loses elasticity, and combined with the engine's high-temperature operation causing thermal expansion and contraction, the gap between the cover and the cylinder block increases, allowing oil to seep out. Loose or improperly tightened screws can also prevent the gasket from being compressed properly, leading to oil leaks. I've personally experienced this—finding the underside of the engine cover greasy. If not repaired promptly, the oil can contaminate belts or sensors, accelerating wear and, in severe cases, affecting fuel consumption and safety. It's advisable to regularly check the oil dipstick and engine bay. If oil stains are noticeable, replace the gasket as soon as possible. A repair shop will charge just over a hundred bucks—quick and worry-free. During routine oil changes, ask the mechanic to inspect it to prevent oil leakage issues from worsening.
