Fixing A Leaky Oil Pan: Stop The Oil Loss

If your car is leaking oil, it's important to fix the problem as soon as possible to prevent damage to your engine. Oil leaks can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a worn-out gasket, impact damage, a faulty oil filter, or a loose drain plug. To fix an oil leak, you can either replace the gasket or the oil pan itself. If the oil pan is cracked, you can attempt to repair it yourself using a cold welding compound, or take it to a mechanic if the crack is large. While waiting for a replacement oil pan, you can temporarily fix a small crack with waterproof heat-resistant tape, high-temperature silicone sealant, solder, or epoxy glue.

Identify the source of the leak

The first step in fixing a leaking oil pan is to identify the source of the leak. There are several signs that can indicate a leaking oil pan:

• A puddle of dark brown or black fluid underneath the engine. The larger the stain, the more severe the leak.
• A low dipstick reading or low oil warning light soon after an oil change.
• A burning smell coming from the engine.
• Engine overheating.

However, it is important to note that oil leaks can occur from other parts of the engine, so further troubleshooting may be required to confirm that the oil pan is the source of the leak. For example, oil may be dripping from other components above the oil pan, such as valve cover gaskets or the timing cover. To confirm that the oil pan is the source of the leak, it is recommended to clean the entire oily area with brake parts cleaner and then spray white foot powder or an equivalent product on the suspected leak area. With the engine running, the leak should become apparent.

Additionally, oil pan leaks can be caused by various factors, including:

• A worn-out or damaged gasket: The gasket may wear out over time, causing a leak around the edges of the oil pan.
• Impact damage: The oil pan may sustain damage from an accident or road debris, resulting in a hole or crack.
• A faulty oil drain plug or compromised threads: The oil drain plug may be loose or the washer may be damaged, allowing oil to escape.

Drain the oil

Before you begin repairing your oil pan, you must drain the oil from the engine. Place a large plastic container under the oil pan. There is a drain plug at the base of the oil pan. Remove it with a wrench and let the oil drain into the container. Engine oil is hazardous to the environment, so do not discard the fluid yourself. Take it to a recycling facility.

Once the oil is drained, remove the container and reinstall the drain plug to prevent dripping. If the oil drain plug is difficult to remove, get a new one and replace it. Make sure to buy the right size. Most oil drain plugs come with gaskets, but if you only need a new gasket, you can buy a blister pack of assorted drain plug gaskets.

Now that the oil is drained, you can move on to the next step of repairing your oil pan.

How to Fix an Oil Pan Leak

A leaking oil pan can be caused by a worn-out gasket or impact damage. Symptoms of a leaking oil pan include a puddle of oil under your vehicle, a greasy oil pan and exhaust system after driving, low oil levels, and a burning smell coming from the engine compartment.

If the oil pan has holes or cracks, the best way to solve and prevent leaks is to replace it. However, if you don't have time for a full replacement, you can seal the leak with silicone or metal epoxy as a temporary fix. Make sure the pan is clean before applying the epoxy. There are many online videos that can teach you how to place silicon or epoxy on the leaks.

If the oil pan gasket is the issue, you will need to replace it. This can be a complex process, so it might be best to seek professional help. The gasket is sandwiched between the engine block and the oil pan, acting as a seal to prevent oil from leaking. Some oil pan gaskets are made of silicone and come in a tube or a caulk cartridge.

Quick Fixes

There are some quick fixes you can try before replacing the oil pan or gasket.

• Replace the drain plug: Each time your car gets an oil change, the oil drain plug is removed and reinstalled. Over time, the threads can stretch and the gasket can become worn, causing a leak.
• Install a new gasket: The oil drain plug gasket can become worn, so replacing it may fix the leak.

Preventing Oil Leaks

To prevent oil leaks, make sure to follow a regular maintenance schedule. This includes oil changes with the right type of oil for your car and inspecting for worn gaskets or loose parts. Ensure the oil filter is installed correctly and tightened properly. Pay attention to any puddles under your car, as even small oil spots can signal a developing leak. If you suspect an oil leak, have a mechanic diagnose the source.

Clean the area

To clean an engine bay, you will need the following:

• Non-metallic scrub brush or pressure washer with foam cannon (if available)
• Plastic bags, twist ties, and tape
• Clean towels or air compressor
• Oil Eater® All Purpose Cleaner (if cleaning manually) or Oil Eater® Cleaner Degreaser (if using a pressure washer)

Firstly, position the vehicle in an area that won't be harmed by rinsed grease and grime from the engine, or cover the area under the car with a plastic drop cloth or other protective material. Check for oil leaks before you start.

Next, open the hood and brush out any loose dirt or leaves inside or under your windshield wipers. Protect all the electrical parts with the plastic bags and tape or twist ties. This includes the battery, alternator, distributor and air intake system.

If you’re cleaning manually:

• Spray Oil Eater® All Purpose Cleaner over your entire engine bay.
• After thoroughly covering the area with cleaner, let it soak for five minutes.
• Scrub down the bay with a non-metallic brush to loosen the greasy build-up.
• Rinse everything off thoroughly with a hose.
• Remove the plastic bags carefully, and then dry the engine with a towel or compressed air.

If you’re using a pressure washer:

• Prepare your pressure washer by filling its chemical tank (if equipped) with Oil Eater® Cleaner Degreaser, being sure to dilute with water per your manufacturer’s directions. If no dilution instructions are available, use 10 parts water to 1 part cleaner as a starting point. If your pressure washer does not have a chemical tank, apply the cleaner to the surface being cleaned using a garden spray tank and a dilution ratio of 10:1.
• Apply the cleaner to the entire engine bay using a low-pressure setting or, if available, a foam cannon. Start approximately five feet away to avoid damage, and move closer as needed.
• Let it soak for five minutes, and then rinse with clean water and a high-pressure nozzle. Again, start at a safe distance so you don’t force water where it doesn’t belong.
• Dry off your engine with a clean towel or compressed air.

Other products that can be used to clean an engine bay include Sonus Trim & Motor Kote, Sonax Engine Detailer, Zep Heavy Duty Citrus Degreaser, Optimum Power Clean, Gunk Engine Degreaser, and Brake Kleen.

Apply a cold welding compound or epoxy

If you've determined that your oil pan is leaking oil, you can fix it yourself by applying a cold welding compound or epoxy. This process will take a couple of hours, but you'll have to wait an additional 15 to 24 hours before driving your car again. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Determine the Size of the Crack

First, examine the base of the oil pan to assess the size of the crack. If the crack is large, it will need to be repaired at a shop that specializes in welding aluminum, so you should stop here and take your car to a mechanic. If the crack is small, you can continue to the next step.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Supplies

You'll need the following items to repair your oil pan:

• A large plastic container
• A cold welding compound or epoxy

Step 3: Drain the Engine Oil

Position the plastic container beneath the car's oil pan. There's a drain plug at the base of the oil pan that you can remove with a wrench. Drain all the oil from the engine into the container. Since engine oil can be hazardous to the environment, take it to a recycling facility instead of discarding it yourself.

Step 4: Clean the Area Around the Crack

Use a rag to remove any oil from the area surrounding the crack. If any oil spills, use an oil absorbent to avoid making a mess.

Step 5: Scrub Away Dirt and Debris

Use sandpaper to remove any dirt or debris that may be embedded in the area around the crack.

Step 6: Clean the Area

Apply mineral spirits to the area surrounding the crack and wipe it clean. Wait for the area to dry completely before moving on to the next step. This should take about 10 minutes.

Step 7: Apply the Cold Welding Compound or Epoxy

Generously spread the cold welding compound or epoxy throughout the cracks. Make sure to follow the instructions on the product you're using. For example, some products require you to mix equal amounts of a weld agent and a hardening agent before application.

Step 8: Allow the Compound to Cure

Wait for the compound to fully cure and seal the crack. This usually takes 15 to 24 hours for cold welding compounds. If you're using an epoxy, check the instructions to determine the curing time.

Step 9: Refill the Engine Oil

Once the compound has cured, replace the engine oil that you removed before starting the repair. After the oil has been refilled, your car will be ready to drive again.

Remember, it's important to take prompt action to fix a leaking oil pan to preserve the health of your car's engine.

Reinstall the oil pan and refill the engine with oil

Once you have purchased the correct replacement parts, you can begin the process of reinstalling the oil pan and refilling the engine with oil.

First, make sure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, engage the parking brake and turn off the engine. If necessary, you can raise the front of the vehicle by driving it onto a ramp or jacking it up and supporting it with jack stands.

Next, locate the oil pan and remove all the mounting bolts. Gently pry the oil pan from the engine block, being careful not to bend or crack the pan. Clean the mounting surface on the engine, removing any old gasket material without damaging the engine block or other mounting surfaces.

Now, install the new oil pan with a new gasket or gasket-making material. Torque the mounting bolts to specification in the correct order.

Finally, refill the engine with the correct amount and type of oil for your vehicle. Start the engine and run it at idle for a minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully inspect under the vehicle for oil leaks, especially by the oil drain plug and oil filter. If leaks are visible, shut off the engine immediately and have the leaks repaired.

Frequently asked questions