Oil Leak!

s-j-cooper_2

I think I hit a rock on the way to work this morning (it was disguised in a big puddle) and there has been a pool of oil getting gradually bigger over the morning beneath the car. I went out at lunchtime to check it and I moved the car to see ho quickly it was coming out, but it seems to have stopped.

Does anyone know why and what may be wrong with the car (and how much it might cost to fix!)

xzibit

It totally depends on what's damaged. If it's cracked the sump, then it's a relatively easy job on most cars, so labour is reduced, but may be expensive for that part (£50-£200). But there are many other parts that could be damaged. How much oil appeared? If it was leaking, and then it stopped, make sure there is still oil in the engine before driving it anywhere.

reduceditem

hole in your oil sump by the sound of it. If all the oil has come out you shouldn't use the engine as it may sieze and then you're in big trouble. Almost everyone will recommend a new sump...pretty expensive and quite a big job I'm afraid. It is possible to repair some holes in the sump with a quick weld (after flushing it clean obviously) but some mechanics/welders don't like doing this. Most places you ask will just tell you to get a new one. Its up to.

rizla01

Depends on the car!

if it is an older moder - rear wheel drive, Etc then the sump is pressed steel and not too much of a problem.

If it's front wheel drive then the 'sump' is actually the gearbox!!!

That'll cost anything up to £1000.00 depending on the vehicle.

Most probably it'll be an average car (Fiesta/ Escort) and should cost about £200.00 to £300.00 total. Inc labour.

Your insurance MIGHT cover it. Check but as said earlier DO NOT DRIVE YOUR CAR until it's been checked over by a pro.

Call out one of the mobile mechanics or the AA if a member.

Hintza

I had a hole in my sump and my man used some sort of rson/araldite like stuff was two years ago and although it seeps through a bit for an older car it is fine.

It could be very expensive if you need a new sump.

In the meantime get an idea of how much you are losing and get 5 litres of oil for topping up (be careful though). hen you get a chance get under your car and wipe any oil off and try ad see where it is coming from.

If it is really bad and all your oil has gone get it to the nearest garage via a tow.

s-j-cooper_2

Took it into a garage and they said it a very slow leak from the sump that had been there a while! They said there was no rush to get it done (It dripped once the whole time they had it up), but quoted me £111 should I want them to do it. Then they charged me £50.

rizla01

and there has been a pool of oil getting gradually bigger over the morning beneath the car.

??

Hintza

s-j-cooper wrote:

Then they charged me £50.

Ouch!!! You are kidding £50 to have a look?

Quinny_2

And the car is????????

Ken.

s-j-cooper_2

rizla01 wrote:

??

I know! I looked this morning just before setting off to work and there was nothing! An absolute mystery to me.

It is an X reg astra by the way.