5 Ways to Prevent Oil Leaks
Ever walked out to your car and noticed an oil stain on the ground? Leaking oil might signal the need for a MINI oil change, or it could point to a more serious problem. Either way, you should bring your car into our MINI dealership whenever you notice that something isn’t right.
In the meantime, there are things you can do to prevent or mitigate oil leaks. Our repair center at MINI of Wesley Chapel has put together this list to help you out.
- Loose oil filters. Oil filters can become loose or misaligned over time, which can lead to leaks. You can change the oil filter yourself or bring your car to our MINI repair center if this happens to you.
- Damaged oil pans. Your oil pan cleans, lubricates, and cools your engine. Since it sits below the engine, it can easily become damaged by debris or punctures. A rubber gasket can seal the pan to prevent damage and oil leaks.
- Worn drain plug or valve cover gasket. Drain plugs sit at the bottom of the oil pan, while the valve cover keeps oil inside the engine. Both are held in place with rubber gaskets which can become worn or brittle, affecting the seal. Replace the rubber gaskets to fix the problem.
- Loose or damaged filler cap. The filler cap is a simple component that should be removed whenever oil is added. If it becomes loose or damaged, you can end up with a bad leak. Be sure to check the filler cap after changing your oil to make sure it’s screwed on properly.
- Check your oil frequently. Regular inspections are essential if you want to prevent oil leaks or serious damage. We recommend that MINI vehicles receive oil changes every 4,000 to 6,000 miles, but if you tend to put a lot of miles on your car, you may need to bring it in more often. In the meantime, make sure to check that you have enough oil every so often.
Schedule MINI Service in Wesley Chapel, FL
Our state-of-the-art MINI repair center in Wesley Chapel offers comprehensive auto service for leaks, including oil checks, changes, and repairs. Our highly qualified MINI technicians are trained to diagnose and fix minor issues and major system repairs. To save time, you can even schedule a service appointment on our website.
If you’re ready to explore your service options or buy a new MINI, visit our MINI dealers in Wesley Chapel, FL. We look forward to seeing you soon!