What to Do If Your Car Is Leaking Oil

If you own or drive a vehicle, you probably know there is oil inside its engine. For that matter, even if you're not a car driver or owner, you likely know this little tidbit. Motors need oil because it lubricates internal components so they can move freely. If there isn't enough of the substance, parts can break, and your vehicle might leave you on the side of the road. At the very least, it could get stuck in your driveway or a parking lot unable to crank.

But why would the oil level become low? Well, the engine could be using or burning it. However, a car leaking oil may be to blame, too. If leaks form, you need to know what to do to prevent disasters, and the information below will help with that.

Does Your Vehicle Leak After Parked for an Extended Period?

If you park your vehicle and it sits for a while, and you find black splotches on the pavement when you return, you likely have a car leaking oil problem on your hands. The drip could be coming from a number of different places. But often, the oil pan gasket is at fault in this scenario. It might have become brittle over the years and deteriorated, or a hole may have developed for another reason. Now, the question to answer is, "What to do?"

Typically, the engine has to be unbolted from the motor mounts and jacked up or lifted with a hoist to replace an oil pan gasket. It can be quite the ordeal for a do-it-yourself project. But, you don't have to face the situation alone. Instead, you can take your vehicle to a reputable shop and have them fix the gasket. Then, all you'll have to do is pick it up when it's ready and you're done.

Stop Leak Fixes

If a car leaking oil is the issue, and you're trying to figure out what to do, you have options. For example, there are many products on the market that claim to stop leaks. One or more of them may work, but what if the item you choose makes matters worse? For instance, adding the solution to your motor could thicken and seal off orifices where oil needs to flow. If that happens the lifter might stick, or rods may cease. In other words, your engine can sustain serious damage. So, if a car leaking oil is your problem and you need to know what to do, taking it to a trustworthy mechanic might be your best bet.

Did you know that if a car leaking oil is the dilemma, the answer for what to do might be closer to home than you think? Just swing by Nucar Nissan of Tilton in Tilton, NH. We have experienced technicians who can repair your ride and nip leaks in the bud. We’ll help you keep oil inside your engine where it belongs and not dripping all over the ground.