Since an oil leak leads to serious issues inside your engine, today’s post by Schell Distributing Inc. in Idaho Falls shares with you the most common signs and causes to detect this issue.

First, Learn The Engine Oil Importance

Did you know engine oil is often referred to as the lifeblood of an engine? This essential fluid plays an important role in ensuring your vehicle's optimal performance. Each time you start and run your car, the engine oil gets pumped throughout the motor's moving parts providing lubrication and absorbing heat. Generally speaking, engine oil shields your engine's systems and gear sets from premature wear, friction, and overheating. Since engine oil is vitally important, it's no wonder why car owners are overwhelmed when they notice a driveway stain or an oily puddle under their cars. If you ever see signs of leaking oil from your engine, you must get your vehicle checked by a professional right away since dripping fluids in general usually lead to more severe issues. To that end, today's post has some key information about the most common causes and warning signs of an oil leak.

Ensure the highest quality protection for your engine by adding amazing products to it, like AMSOIL's Signature Series 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil. Call Schell Distributing Inc. at (208) 524-0322, or visit AMSOIL's online store to learn more about the most efficient synthetic oil in Idaho Falls.

Common Signs of Oil Leaks

Although some oil leaks are quickly noticed by having oily stains under your car, others hide inside the engine; therefore, it is important to look out for these warning signs:

• Low oil levels: If you notice constant low readings by measuring your oil levels regularly, that might indicate a hidden leak. Due to this, it is important to check oil levels once or twice each month.
• Engine stains: Another efficient way to spot hidden oil leaks is by inspecting the engine. First, make sure the engine is not hot to avoid getting burnt. Then, look around under your vehicle's hood and search for oily residues, stains, and even small fluid puddles. If you notice any, have it checked by a professional.
• Burning oil smell: If there's an internal leak, the engine oil will most likely get burnt while the vehicle is running; therefore, be aware of any unusual smell coming from your engine.

If it's time to change your engine's oil, call Schell Distributing Inc. at (208) 524-0322 to get information about the highest protection for your motor. Also, explore AMSOIL's online store to place an order for the top-quality synthetic oil in Idaho Falls.

Oil Leak Common Causes

The engine comprises several different systems that wear down over time; hence, there are multiple reasons to explain an oil leak; however, some causes are more common than others. To that end, here's a list of the most frequent issues leading to oil leaks:

• Valve cover gasket issues: This silicone rubber piece seals the valve cover on top of the engine's cylinder head. Since this system houses the combustion chamber, engine oil gets pumped inside to lubricate all the combustion moving parts while the valve gasket seals to hold the oil inside. However, this rubber piece shrinks and cracks over time, leading to oil dripping out. To that end, you can look for oily residues near the valve cover. If you notice any, that means your valve cover gasket is faulty and needs to be replaced.
• Oil filter problems: Needless to say, your vehicle's oil filter must be replaced every other oil change or by the maintenance schedule suggested in your owner's manual. To that end, you must ensure that it is appropriately installed since tight or loosely placed oil filters lead to leaks.
• Worn oil pan gasket: This seal holds oil between the oil pan and the engine block, similar to the valve cover gasket. If left unchecked, this gasket eventually cracks and wears down over time, letting the oil leak out by the sides.
• Worn cylinder head gasket: This specific gasket is metal-made, however. Plus, a faulty head gasket also leads to a coolant leaking through its cracks into the oil galley. Since mixing coolant with oil can cause engine failure, keeping this gasket in good shape is vital.

Take Care of Your Oil Leak

It goes without saying that ignoring an oil leak leads to major engine damage, not to mention the significant repair expenses it causes if unchecked. To that end, it's essential to check your oil levels regularly and follow the scheduled maintenance your vehicle requires. Plus, if you notice any sign of leaking, get a professional check right away.

Improve your vehicle's efficiency by adding the most efficient synthetic oil in Idaho Falls. Visit AMSOIL's online store and explore the full line of maintenance products. To place an order on amazing products like AMSOIL's Signature Series 10W-30 Synthetic Motor Oil, call Schell Distributing Inc. at (208) 524-0322.