Replacing Oil Pan Gasket: 2008 Impala Diy Guide

The oil pan gasket on a 2008 Impala can be replaced by following a series of steps. Firstly, the passenger wheel, wheel well cover, and engine cover should be removed. Next, the A/C compressor should be removed and set aside. The engine mount to frame nuts and engine roll brackets should also be removed, and the engine should be raised. After removing the starter and bracket, access the oil filter housing and remove the front engine mount, drive plate plastic cover, and transmission oil pan. With access to all oil pan bolts, a socket can be used to reach the rear oil pan bolt. The old oil pan can then be removed, cleaned, and a new gasket installed. Finally, the process is reversed to assemble the components back into the car. The total cost of this repair, excluding the cost of a new oil pan, is estimated to be around $30.

How to Replace Oil Pan Gasket on 2008 Impala

Removing the passenger wheel and wheel well cover

To remove the passenger wheel and wheel well cover of a 2008 Impala when replacing the oil pan gasket, follow these steps:

Begin by jacking up the car and removing the passenger wheel. This will give you access to the wheel well and engine components. It is recommended to have a jack and jack stands ready to safely support the vehicle. Once the car is securely lifted, proceed to remove the wheel well cover. This will expose the engine and allow you to access the oil pan and its gasket.

Next, you'll need to disconnect the A/C compressor. Loosen the mounting bolts and set the compressor aside, placing it on top of the engine frame. This step will provide better access to the oil pan and the surrounding area.

After that, you can proceed to remove the engine mount to frame nuts and the engine roll brackets. This will enable you to raise the engine. You can use a jack to lift the engine from underneath the oil pan. Ensure you have a stable and secure setup to hold the engine in its raised position.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed the passenger wheel and wheel well cover, and you will be one step closer to replacing the oil pan gasket on your 2008 Impala.

Raising the engine

To replace the oil pan gasket on a 2008 Impala, you will need to raise the engine. This is a necessary step to gain access to the oil pan bolts. Here is a detailed guide on how to raise the engine:

First, make sure your car is securely supported on jack stands. Position a jack underneath the oil pan, preferably on the driver's side. You can use the jack to lift the engine, but be careful not to place it directly under the centre to avoid the studs from the subframe getting stuck. Instead, slightly offset the jack to the left or right.

Loosen the two motor mount nuts and remove the nuts and washers. Use a suitable lubricant, such as PB Blaster, to make this process easier. Start jacking up the engine slowly. As you do this, the motor will begin to lift and tilt, freeing the stud from the driver's side subframe.

Now, you need to create some clearance for the engine mount bolts. On the driver's side, there is a metal area between the two circular holes that need to be hollowed out. Carefully cut out the middle section using appropriate tools, such as drill bits and a Dremel tool. Be cautious not to cut into the cup piece, as this could affect the stability of the motor mount.

Once the cutting is complete, grab some washers. Decide how high you want to raise the oil pan and adjust the number of washers accordingly. Slide the washers onto the stud, ensuring that the black metal piece is in place. Now, lower the jack. You may need assistance to push the engine while lowering it to guide the stud through the slot.

Move the jack to the passenger side of the oil pan and start jacking up the engine again. This side does not require any cutting. Raise the engine higher than before to ensure the stud clears the subframe. Slide the desired number of washers onto the stud and then lower the engine back down.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully raise the engine of your 2008 Impala, providing the necessary clearance to access and replace the oil pan gasket.

Removing the oil pan

To remove the oil pan on a 2008 Impala, you will first need to drain the engine oil. You can then begin to remove the various components that are blocking access to the oil pan. This includes the A/C compressor mounting bolts, the starter motor, and the transaxle brace. You may also need to loosen the transaxle mount lower nuts and remove the engine mount lower nuts.

Once these parts have been removed or loosened, you can then raise the engine. This can be done with a jack or by using a piece of wood to prop up the engine. With the engine raised, you can now access the oil pan bolts. All oil pan bolts are 13mm and can be removed with a socket wrench.

After the bolts have been removed, you can now take off the oil pan. Gently wiggle it out of place, being careful not to damage any surrounding components. With the oil pan removed, you can now clean it and apply a new gasket before reinstalling the oil pan.

Cleaning the oil pan

To clean the oil pan of a 2008 Impala, you will first need to remove it from the vehicle. This can be done by following the steps outlined in the Impala Forums.

Once the oil pan is removed, you can begin the cleaning process. It is important to note that the oil pan will be covered in old oil, so it is recommended to have some old rags or paper towels on hand to wipe away any excess oil. For this project, you will also need a large container or bucket, hot water, dish soap, and a scrub brush.

Fill the container with hot water and add a generous amount of dish soap. Submerge the oil pan in the soapy water and let it soak for a while. Use the scrub brush to scrub away any remaining oil or residue. Rinse the oil pan with clean water and repeat the process if necessary.

Alternatively, you can use a degreaser or oven cleaner to clean the oil pan. Spray the product onto the oil pan and let it sit for a while before scrubbing and rinsing with water. For more stubborn residue, you may need to use a scraper or wire wheel to remove it.

Once the oil pan is clean, be sure to dry it thoroughly before reinstalling it in the vehicle.

Reassembling and refilling oil

Once you have removed the oil pan, cleaned it, and installed a new gasket, you can begin reassembling your 2008 Impala.

First, carefully lower the engine and secure it in place. Ensure the new gasket is properly aligned and seated before reinstalling the oil pan. Reinstall the oil pan bolts, torque converter, and transaxle brace. Reconnect the starter motor, oil level sensor wiring harness, and A/C compressor. Tighten all bolts and brackets to the manufacturer's specifications.

Next, you will need to refill the engine with new oil. Consult your owner's manual for the correct oil type and capacity for your Impala. Add the oil through the oil filler cap, typically located on the engine under the bonnet. Be sure to check for any leaks after refilling the oil.

After refilling the oil, you should also check and top up other essential fluids, such as coolant and brake fluid. Ensure the battery is reconnected, and the vehicle is lowered from the jack or hoist. Reinstall the wheel and wheel well cover.

Finally, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Check for any leaks around the oil pan gasket, as well as the oil level. Ensure the oil pressure light goes off after starting the engine. Let the Permatex dry for 24 hours before driving the vehicle.

Frequently asked questions