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Oil Leak Under The Car

Brown or black drips under the front of the car are usually engine oil, often from a gasket, the oil filter or the drain plug.

Normal risk

Usually not urgent if small, but check the oil level regularly. A large leak can starve the engine of oil.

Short answer · Can I drive with an oil leak?

With a small leak, yes, as long as you check the oil level regularly and top up. A leak that leaves a puddle overnight or makes the oil level drop quickly needs prompt repair. Oil dripping on the exhaust can also smoke or catch fire.

On this page

Safe checks you can do

  1. Check the oil levelUse the dipstick or the oil level display on level ground.If the oil pressure warning comes on, stop the engine.
  2. Put cardboard under the car overnightThe position and colour of the drips help find the source.
  3. Look around the engineWet, dirty areas around the oil filter, sump and valve cover point to the leak.

Questions that narrow it down

  1. What colour are the drips?Brown or black is engine oil; red can be transmission or power steering fluid.
  2. Where under the car is it?Front centre is usually the engine.
  3. Did it start after an oil change?Check the drain plug and filter.

Possible causes

Listed without ranking. Use the questions above to see which ones fit your car.

  1. Valve cover gasketCommon on older engines.
  2. Oil pan gasket or drain plugDrips from the lowest point.
  3. Oil filter sealEspecially after a service.
  4. Crankshaft or camshaft sealsLeaks at the front or rear of the engine.

Questions about Oil Leak Under The Car

Are oil leak additives worth it?

They may slow small seal leaks on older engines but do not fix damaged gaskets. Use only products your engine maker allows.

Is an oil leak an inspection failure?

In many countries a significant leak fails a roadworthiness test.