Gasket Replacement: When Removing Oil Pan, What's Next?

Replacing a leaking oil pan is one of the best ways to ensure your engine is receiving the oil it needs. The oil pan is the reservoir for your engine oil located at the bottom of the engine. The gasket/seal between the pan and engine block is subjected to the heat cycling of the engine, as well as weather and road debris. Over time, the oil pan gasket will harden, dry, and crack, causing an oil leak.

If you notice a leak, it is important to get it checked out as soon as possible. A leaking oil pan will reduce the oil level and lead to internal damage. Some vehicles have easy access to the oil pan, but others are blocked by suspension/engine support members, requiring the engine to be removed and/or supported. This requires specialty equipment and usually requires the vehicle to be supported on a lift. If this is the case with your vehicle, taking it to a local repair shop for the oil pan gasket replacement is recommended.

When to replace a gasket

The gasket in your vehicle's oil pan is crucial for keeping the lubrication system intact and preventing motor oil from leaking out. It is important to replace the gasket when it starts to leak to avoid engine damage. Here are some signs that indicate when you should replace the gasket:

Signs of a Leaky Oil Pan Gasket

• Loss of Motor Oil: Over time, as mileage increases, engines often develop oil leaks, and the oil pan gasket is usually one of the first places to be affected. Heat and age dry out the gasket, making it brittle, and engine vibrations coupled with crankcase gases pushing from the inside cause cracks and holes for the oil to seep out.
• Visible Oil Leaks: If you notice oil spots under your vehicle where you park, it could be a sign of a leaky oil pan gasket.
• Burning Oil Smell: The smell of burning oil coming from your engine may indicate that the oil pan gasket is leaking and the oil is dripping onto hot engine components.
• Low Oil Level: If the leak is severe and your engine has lost a significant amount of oil, you may see the oil light come on. At this point, it is crucial to address the issue immediately to avoid engine damage.
• Oil Pan Damage: In some cases, the oil pan itself may be damaged, requiring replacement along with the gasket. Consult a trained technician or mechanic to diagnose the issue accurately.

Preventative Maintenance

While the oil pan gasket leak may not leave you stranded on the side of the road immediately, it is important to address it promptly. Small leaks can lead to bigger problems over time, especially if the oil level drops critically low. Finding a good mechanic with experience in engine repair is essential for proper diagnosis and timely repair.

Cost Considerations

The cost of replacing an oil pan gasket can vary depending on the vehicle's make and model. The gasket itself is typically inexpensive, ranging from $10 to $40. However, the labour cost can range from $100 to $400 or more if additional components need to be removed for access. Therefore, it is beneficial to replace the gasket at the first sign of a leak to avoid more costly repairs in the future.

How to identify a leak

To identify an oil leak, you can start by cleaning the engine with a degreaser and then running the car for a few minutes. Check if there are any oil drops on the ground. Placing cardboard underneath the car can help to spot any liquid. This allows you to visually detect the leak.

If the oil leak is not immediately visible, there are other indicators to consider. One of these is a lower-than-normal oil level. If you notice a significant decrease in oil level over a short period, there is likely a problem with the oil pan gasket. Another indicator is engine overheating, which can cause potential damage.

If you notice a leak while driving, safely pull over and turn off the vehicle. It is important to note that driving a car with an oil leak can pose a risk to the safety of other drivers.

How to remove an oil pan

To remove an oil pan, follow these steps:

Step 1: Identify the problem. If you have a leaking oil pan, you will likely notice one of the following issues: a puddle of oil under your car, smoke coming from your engine, or lower-than-normal oil levels.

Step 2: Confirm the source of the leak. Clean all the oil from your engine using a degreaser or engine cleaner, then go for a quick drive (10-20 minutes) and recheck for leaks. If you don't discover leaking oil from anywhere above your oil pan, then it's likely that the leak is coming from the oil pan gasket.

Step 3: Purchase the replacement oil pan. Before you can begin removing and replacing the oil pan, you'll need to research the specific parts that your car needs.

Step 4: Remove the oil pan. Oil pans can be difficult to access and are often attached by a significant number of small bolts. On some vehicles, you may need to remove the front sub-frame or even the motor to access the oil pan. Remove all the oil pan mounting bolts, gently pry the oil pan from the engine block, and clean the mounting surface on the engine.

Step 5: Install the new oil pan. Install the new oil pan with a new gasket or gasket-making material, and torque the mounting bolts to specification in the correct order. Clean the mounting surface after removing the old oil pan and gasket, using a gasket scraper or similar tool to remove any old gasket material without damaging the engine block or other mounting surfaces.

Step 6: Seal the oil pan. Use a new gasket or a liquid gasket maker to seal the new oil pan, adding a liquid sealant anywhere the new oil pan crosses a seam or gap.

How to clean an oil pan

To clean an oil pan, you must first identify the source of the leak. Clean all the oil from your engine using a degreaser or engine cleaner. Then, take your car for a quick drive (10 to 20 minutes) and recheck for leaks. If you don't discover leaking oil from anywhere above your oil pan, then it is likely that the leak is coming from the oil pan gasket.

Now, to clean the oil pan:

• Use a paint scraper or coarse steel wool to remove everything caked onto the pan.
• Take the pan to a self-service car wash and wash off anything that will come off.
• Spray the pan down with an oven cleaner.
• Let the oven cleaner sit for an hour.
• Put the pan in the dishwasher with lots of dishwasher detergent on the pots and pans cycle.
• After you are done, run the dishwasher empty to clean out any residue.

Alternatively, you can:

• Drown the pan in dish soap and let it soak.
• Wash it with hot water and a scrub brush.
• Repeat until clean.

Or:

• Use a scraper, wire wheel, and brakeclean.
• Soak in water/laundry detergent.
• Scrub with a bristle brush and steel wool scouring pads.
• Rinse with hot water.

You can also use mineral spirits, engine degreaser, or a pressure washer.

How to install a new gasket

Installing a new gasket can be a tricky process, so here is a step-by-step guide to help you out:

Step 1: Purchase the Correct Gasket

Firstly, you need to ensure you have the right gasket for your vehicle. Gasket materials vary depending on the type of metal they are intended to seal. Name-brand gaskets usually come with any necessary sealants.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

Before you begin, you will need to jack up the vehicle and remove the oil filter and drain plug to allow the oil to drain into a pan. You should then identify the location of all the oil pan bolts, some of which may be obscured by other parts. You may need to remove wheel-well-liner pieces to access the bolts.

Step 3: Remove the Old Gasket

Once all the bolts are removed, you can drop the old oil pan. You may need to tap it lightly with a mallet to break the seal. Next, scrape off any gasket residue and clean all sealing surfaces with a solvent. Also, clean the inside of the oil pan and check for cracks.

Step 4: Install the New Gasket

Now you can install the new gasket. Follow the instructions that come with the gasket. Some gaskets use regular grease to hold them in position, while others require a thin film of RTV to be applied to the oil pan mounting surface. Allow the RTV to set up for a few minutes before applying the gasket. Ensure you apply even pressure all around.

Step 5: Reattach the Oil Pan

Reattach the oil pan and torque the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications. You may need to refer to a service manual for your vehicle to ensure you are torquing the bolts correctly.

Step 6: Refill the Oil Pan

Reinstall the oil drain plug and new oil filter. Fill the engine with the recommended oil. Check for any obvious leaks before lowering the vehicle. Start the engine and let it run for a minute. Turn the engine off and wait a few minutes, then check the oil level and top off if needed. Once checked, start the vehicle again and let it warm up. Check for any leaks after the vehicle has been warmed up and driven.

Frequently asked questions