Changing the oil in your car is likely not your favorite thing to do. However, monitoring your engine oil is a sure way to avoid bigger issues. If you suspect your car’s oil is leaking, Catlett’s Service Center & Towing has compiled five common signs to look for.
Top 5 Signs of An Oil Leak
1. Stains
When pulling out of your driveway, if you notice dark stains the color of motor oil, this could be a sign that you have an oil leak. If you notice these stains, you should take your car to Catlett’s Service Center & Towing quickly for service.
2. Smoke
Dripping oil usually hits other hot parts of your engine, causing smoke to form. If you notice smoke coming from under the hood, this is a sign that points to leaking oil. Smoke may only occur under certain conditions, such as when your car is parked or first starting up. Typically, any smoke from under the hood is reason enough to bring it into the shop to have one of our technicians perform a diagnostic exam.
3. “Check Oil” Light
We all ignore the flashing lights on our car’s dashboards occasionally. While it is not a direct indicator of a major problem, it could mean any number of things, including that it is time to change the oil. Many newer vehicles also come equipped with an oil amount sensor.
4. Burnt Smell
When being driven, your car reaches extremely high temperatures under the hood. If oil leaks, you may start to notice a burning smell resulting from oil dripping on the surface of hot metal under the car’s hood.
5. Overheating
One key function of oil is temperature regulation. When oil levels are low, your engine will start to heat up, leading to overheating. If your “check engine” light comes on or your car stalls, it may be due to an oil link.
What Should I Do If My Car Is Leaking Oil?
If you notice any of these signs indicating that you may have an oil leak, you should make an appointment at Catlett’s Service Center & Towing as soon as possible. We can check out your car and ensure that it is in good shape before you get back on the road. Leaking oil can potentially mean bigger problems for your car. Please contact our automotive shop at 410-798-5446 to schedule your appointment.