Leaking Oil Pan Gaskets: A Serious Warning Sign?

Oil pan gaskets are prone to leaking, and while you could go for years without changing it, a leaking oil pan gasket can have serious consequences for your car. The oil pan gasket is situated between the lower lip of the engine block and the upper flange of the oil pan. It is designed to stop oil from leaking from around the oil pan's mounting surface. However, given enough time and use, every engine will start to leak oil. This is due to the wear and tear brought on by frequent and continuous exposure to heat.

Low oil warning light comes on

A low oil warning light is a serious issue and should not be ignored. If the low oil pressure light comes on, it is best to turn off your vehicle and not use it until the problem is fixed. Driving with low oil pressure can quickly destroy your engine.

There are several reasons why the low oil warning light may come on:

• Your oil level is too low: Check your oil level with the dipstick. If it is low, add fresh oil until it reaches the full mark.
• Your oil pump is bad: Shut off your vehicle and check the oil level after a few minutes. If the level is between the minimum and maximum, do not drive the vehicle and call a mechanic.
• Your oil filter is blocked: Change your oil and filter at the recommended service intervals.
• Your sensor, wiring or warning light is bad: Shut off your vehicle and check the oil level. If everything seems normal, but the light stays on, consult a mechanic.
• Your oil system is clogged with sludge: Stop driving and take your vehicle to a repair shop. Consider switching to synthetic oil and changing it at the proper intervals.

If you notice any fluid leaks from your car, it is important to book your car into a reputable garage to investigate the problem and complete any necessary repairs. An oil pan gasket leak is a common cause of oil leaks and can result in unexpected oil loss, an oil stain on the floor, a burning oil smell, engine oil coating the underside of the vehicle, a low oil light, and engine smoke.

Oil stains on the floor

If you notice oil stains on your floor, there are several methods you can use to remove them. One method is to use an absorbent powder such as clay cat litter, baking soda, or talcum powder. Spread the powder over the stain and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the oil. For heavy stains, you can leave it overnight. Then, sweep or vacuum up the powder and discard it.

Another method is to use a liquid dish soap. Saturate the stain with the soap and let it sit for about an hour to cut and break up the grease. Then, use a scrub brush to work the soap into the stain in a circular motion. Reapply soap and water as needed, and then rinse with clean water and let the area dry.

If you have a wax-finished floor, you can also use acetone and Fuller's earth to remove the stain. First, wipe the area with a rag soaked in acetone. Then, mix the acetone with Fuller's earth to make a thick paste and spread it on the stain. Let it dry, and then use a brush or palette knife to remove the paste. Finally, clean the area with a pH-neutral detergent and mop.

In addition to removing the stains, it is important to address the source of the leak to prevent further issues.

Burning oil smell

A burning oil smell is one of the most common signs of an oil pan gasket leak. As oil leaks from the gasket, it can drip onto hot engine components, such as the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, or other parts of the exhaust system. When the oil comes into contact with these heated surfaces, it burns, producing a noticeable and unpleasant smell.

The scent of burning oil is often described as acrid, smoky, or similar to hot plastic. This smell may be particularly evident shortly after you first start up your vehicle, as leaking oil may have slowly accumulated on another component while the vehicle was parked.

However, it's important to note that a burning oil smell can also be caused by other issues, such as a valve cover gasket leak, worn valve seals or piston rings, an overfilled oil reservoir, or a malfunctioning crankcase ventilation system.

If you suspect an oil leak, it is recommended to check the oil level with a dipstick and inspect for leaks around the engine. If you notice a small puddle of dark brown or black fluid underneath your engine, it could be engine oil. Confirm the source of the leak and, if necessary, seek the assistance of a trusted mechanic.

Ignoring the signs of a failing oil pan gasket can result in costly repairs and even catastrophic engine damage. Therefore, it is crucial to address any potential leaks or burning smells as soon as possible to prevent further complications and ensure the optimal performance of your vehicle.

Engine oil coating the underside of the vehicle

Engine oil coating the underside of a vehicle is a sign of a serious oil pan gasket leak. This is because a moving vehicle is subject to blowback, where air rushes beneath the undercarriage, sweeping rearward any oil that has leaked from a failed or defective oil pan gasket. The severity of the breach increases the spread of the oil.

The presence of oil on the underside of a vehicle can also be a factor in the strong odour associated with oil pan gasket leaks. As oil is swept across a vehicle's exhaust, it is heated to the point of producing a strong smell.

If you notice engine oil coating the underside of your vehicle, it is important to address the issue promptly. Book your car into a reputable garage to have a qualified mechanic investigate the problem and perform any necessary repairs or replacements.

Cleaning the underside of a vehicle can be challenging, and it may be necessary to seek professional help. Methods such as steam cleaning with degreaser or power washing are often recommended. It is also important to consider undercoating the vehicle after cleaning to protect against rust and corrosion.

While some people may suggest leaving the oil on as a form of rust protection, this is not advisable if you plan to repaint the vehicle. Additionally, oil can build up and persist in the environment, leading to pollution. Therefore, it is best to remove the oil and apply a suitable undercoating product.

Engine smoke

White Smoke

White smoke is indicative of trouble within the engine. It could be caused by coolant entering the combustion chamber, a cracked engine block or cylinder head, or a leaking head gasket. If you notice a sweet smell accompanying the smoke, it is likely that coolant is the cause. If the engine begins to overheat, you will need to take your vehicle to a service centre immediately to prevent severe and irreversible damage to the engine.

Blue or Grey Smoke

Blue or grey smoke indicates that your engine is burning engine oil. This could be due to a leak, and you may notice your engine consuming more oil. This issue should be addressed by a mechanic as soon as possible, as failure to do so could result in the engine seizing and needing complete replacement.

Black Smoke

Black smoke indicates that the vehicle is burning too much fuel, which could be caused by a faulty or leaking fuel injector, a broken or damaged fuel pressure regulator, or a dysfunctional carburettor. It could also be caused by something simpler, such as a clogged air filter or other intake components. This issue will result in poor gas mileage until it is resolved.

Steam-like Vapour

Steam-like vapour is generally not a cause for concern. It is caused by condensation building within the exhaust system and will quickly dissipate into the air.

If you notice smoke accompanied by a burning smell, this could be a sign of a leaking oil pan gasket. A leaking oil pan gasket can cause engine oil to leak and burn, producing smoke.

Frequently asked questions