Visual check for oil leaks

If there are traces of oil on the engine and if oil consumption is high, check where the leak is coming from. Check out the following places:

• Open the oil filler cap and check the gasket for porosity and damage.
• Cylinder head cover gasket.
• Cylinder head gasket.
• Oil filter seal.
• Screw drain plug (sealing ring).
• The sealing gasket of the oil pan.
• Oil level and pressure sensor.
• The junction of the engine and gearbox (gasket on flywheel or drive shaft).

Since oil usually spreads over the surface of the engine in case of a leak, it is difficult to determine the source of the leak at first glance. When searching for a leak, it is advisable to proceed as follows:

Wash the engine. Spray the engine with a commercially available cold cleaner and. after a short time, spray with water. Cover the ignition coils and alternator with plastic wrap first.

Sprinkle chalk or talc on the outside of the joints and seals on the engine.

Check the oil level, top up if necessary.

Take a test drive. Since the oil thins out when the engine is warm and therefore escapes faster at the leak, a test drive should be carried out for about 30 km at high speed.

Then inspect the engine with a lamp, locate the leak and repair the leak.