What Causes Sudden Engine Oil Leakage?
3 Answers
There are two basic scenarios for engine oil leakage in automobiles: Engine Oil Leakage: When there are clearly visible oil stains on the surface of the engine casing, and if these stains reappear shortly after being cleaned, or in severe cases, oil drips like water droplets, it is advisable to have the vehicle repaired as soon as possible. Engine Oil Seepage: If there are only minor oil stains on the engine casing, this indicates that the oil leakage is not particularly severe. The seepage is minimal and hardly noticeable, posing almost no impact on the engine's performance.
I found that the engine suddenly started leaking oil. Common situations include aging seals or cracks in the oil pan after impact, especially for cars that have been driven for several years. High-temperature operation makes rubber seals brittle, leading to oil seepage. If you notice fresh oil stains dripping under the car, immediately stop in a safe place and turn off the engine. Check the oil dipstick level—if it's low, don't force the drive, as insufficient lubrication could cause engine cylinder scoring, leading to more expensive repairs. Quickly go to a professional shop for inspection and part replacement. During regular maintenance, replace seals in advance to prevent such sudden issues.
Engine oil leakage poses significant risks. Leaked oil dripping onto hot exhaust pipes may cause fires, or lead to insufficient engine lubrication and component burnout. If I notice any oil stains while driving, I immediately pull over and avoid starting the engine if smoke is present. I use my phone to photograph the leak location to assist technicians in diagnosis. Common causes include loose oil filters or failed seals at connections. For emergency measures, I wipe the area with a cloth, but this doesn't provide a permanent fix. Regularly checking the oil circuit seals every six months helps prevent minor issues from escalating into major accidents.
