If your car is leaking oil after an oil change, it can be a frustrating problem.
There are various reasons why oil might leak from a car after an oil change and in this article, we’ll look at some common causes and how to resolve this problem.
Oil is an integral element of the engine in your car, responsible for lubricating its parts, decreasing friction, and maintaining a constant temperature within the engine.
Without adequate lubrication, engine damage could occur which will require costly repairs.
Have you recently had an oil change and are noticing leaks when running your car?
This could be indicative of a larger issue. Fortunately, with proper diagnosis and repair, you can avoid further harm to your car’s engine.
Possible Causes of Oil Leakage After an Oil Change:
1. Loose or Damaged Oil Filter
One of the most frequent reasons for oil leakage after an oil change is a loose or damaged filter.
If it has not been tightened properly or has been damaged during installation, oil can seep from your car.
To avoid this problem, ensure your oil filter is installed correctly and tightened according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
Additionally, visually inspect the oil filter after installation to make sure it’s not damaged.
2. Faulty Oil Pan
Another common reason for oil leakage after an oil change is a malfunctioning pan.
This component collects any oil that has passed through the engine and returns it to the oil pump.
If the oil pan on your car has been damaged or punctured, it can allow oil to leak from it.
In such cases, replacing the oil pan is recommended in order to prevent further oil seepage.
3. Damaged Oil Drain Plug
A damaged oil drain plug can be another potential culprit of oil leakage after an oil change.
This device drains old oil from the engine during a change, so any damage to it could lead to costly leakage later on.
If the oil drain plug on your car is damaged, it could allow oil to seep into your engine.
To avoid this issue, ensure that the plug is securely tightened and not damaged during installation.
4. Improper Installation of Gasket
If the gasket that seals the oil filter or pan to your engine is incorrectly installed, it could allow oil to leak from your car.
Make sure that it’s installed securely and not damaged during installation to avoid this problem.
5. Overfilled Oil
Overfilled oil can also contribute to oil leakage after an oil change.
When too much oil is added to the engine during a service, it could allow the fluids inside to seep out of your car.
To avoid this problem, make sure the correct amount of oil is added to the engine during an oil change.
Check your car’s manual or consult with a mechanic to confirm that you’re adding the right amount of oil for your car.
How to Repair Oil Leakage After an Oil Change
If you’ve noticed oil leaking from your car after an oil change, there are several steps you can take to resolve the problem.
It’s important to stop the leaking as it can lead to other issues like your car jerking after an oil change, a rough ride, or permanent damage to your vehicle.
Depending on what caused the leakage, some or all of these may be necessary:
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Examine the Oil Filter
Visually inspect the oil filter to confirm it’s not damaged and installed correctly. If so, replace it immediately.
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Tighten the Oil Filter
If the oil filter appears loose, tighten it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Be sure not to overtighten as this could damage the filter.
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Replace an Oil Pan
If your oil pan is damaged, replacement is necessary. This repair could involve more complexity and may necessitate professional assistance from a mechanic.
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Replacing an Oil Drain Plug
If your oil drain plug is damaged, you need to have it replaced. This repair can easily be done at home or by a mechanic.
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Replace the Gasket
If the gasket that seals the oil filter or pan to the engine is either incorrectly installed or damaged, replacement of this gasket is necessary. This repair can easily be done at home by yourself or with assistance from an online mechanic to guide you.
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Drain Excess Oil
If your car has too much oil, drain the extra and make sure the correct amount is added back into the engine during its next oil change.
Conclusion
Oil leakage from your car after an oil change can be frustrating, but it’s essential to diagnose and fix the problem to prevent extensive engine damage.
Common causes of oil leakage after an oil change includes loose or damaged filters, defective pans or drain plugs, improper installation of gaskets and overfilled oil.
To resolve the issue you may need to tighten filters or drain plugs; replace pans/gaskets; or drain excess oil.
If unsure how best to proceed I recommend you ask a mechanic online or locally.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can an overfilled engine lead to oil leakage?
Yes, overfilling an engine with oil can lead to oil leakage as excess fluid causes pressure to build up inside, potentially leading to a rupture.
If you are unsure as to how much oil to pour in, consult our owner’s manual or speak to a mechanic locally or online.
Is oil leakage after an oil change common?
Oil leakage after an oil change is not a common occurrence but can occur for various reasons as detailed in this article.
Can I drive with oil leakage after an oil change?
It is not advised to drive with oil leakage as this can result in extensive engine damage and costly repairs. It’s best to diagnose and resolve the problem promptly for optimal safety and performance.
Can I fix oil leakage at home?
Depending on the cause of an oil leakage, some repairs can be completed at home. However, more complex issues may require the assistance of a qualified mechanic for proper diagnosis and repair.
How often Should I Change My Car’s Oil?
The frequency of oil changes required for your car depends on its make and model as well as the type of oil used. Consult either your car’s manual or a mechanic to find out the recommended oil change interval.
