OIL LEAKS

OIL LEAKS AND THEIR EFFECT ON THE HEALTH OF YOUR ENGINE



IS A LITTLE OIL LEAK A PROBLEM?

The simple answer is yes. Any oil leak can become a big problem for your engine. Even the smallest of leaks can sometimes expand while your vehicle is in operation, causing your engine to seize up. Such a catastrophic engine failure is not only going to be expensive to repair but should the failure happen while you’re driving, the seizure of the engine can contribute to a crash and the accompanying problems and repairs that result from a crash. The best thing you can do for your engine and peace of mind is to take your vehicle to Encinitas Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair in Encinitas, CA, for regular oil changes and engine inspections.

CAUSES AND SIGNS OF OIL LEAKS

Degraded engine gaskets, oil pan leaks, and worn-out seals are some of the most common causes of oil leaks. These parts will wear out with time and driving, so it’s important to have your engine regularly inspected to gauge the health of these parts. One way to detect an oil leak in your vehicle is to check the engine oil level using the dipstick in your engine area. If you notice the level of oil dropping as you check the dipstick on a regular basis, you probably have an oil leak. If you notice blue smoke coming from your exhaust or engine compartment or smell a strong burning smell while the engine is running, you may have an oil leak.

DANGERS OF OIL LEAKS

Aside from the possibility of engine damage from an oil leak, leaking oil can carry toxic chemicals and heavy metals that leach into water and soil when you allow the oil to leak freely. That oil stain on your driveway will get washed by the rain, and those chemicals and heavy metals will end up in the watershed. Oil leaks can also be fire and safety hazards. Should the oil ignite or the engine seize while you’re driving, you put yourself, your passengers, and other drivers at risk.

TAKE IT TO ENCINITAS FOREIGN & DOMESTIC AUTO REPAIR

Rather than allowing a small problem to become a big one, getting regular oil changes and having the engine inspected by the team at Encinitas Foreign & Domestic Auto Repair in Encinitas, CA, will keep your vehicle operating as it should and put you back on the road as fast as possible. Give them a call today to make an appointment, or stop by the shop to speak to the team about how they can help you with an oil change and engine inspection.