Engine oil leakage from the engine is a source of environmental pollution. In addition, during the technical inspection, certain claims may be made to the condition of the vehicle. For this reason, the engine should be inspected regularly for possible oil leaks. At the same time, some oil leakage is considered normal.
In order to determine the location of the leak, it is necessary to clean the intended place of dirt, and then, after running a certain distance, check if there are traces of oil leakage. The most likely places for oil leakage are the gaskets of the cylinder head cover, end shield, oil pan, oil filter, drain plug, crankcase ventilation hoses.
Malfunctions of the engine lubrication system are manifested in high engine oil consumption, low pressure in the system. System malfunctions are signaled by the oil pressure warning lamp.
Excessive oil consumption may be the result of worn cylinders, pistons and/or piston rings, valve guides or valve stem seals, crankshaft oil seals or seals on the engine. In general, such a malfunction is the reason for disassembling the engine.
The cause of low oil pressure can be caused by a defective oil pressure sensor or its wiring, a malfunctioning pressure reducing valve, a clogged crankcase oil intake strainer, low oil level, a malfunctioning oil pump, or worn main and connecting rod bearing shells. In most cases, when the oil pressure drops, the first thing to check is the oil level in the system. All other causes can only be eliminated by disassembling the engine.
If the engine oil pressure warning light comes on while driving, stop and turn off the engine. Do not wait for the control lamp to go out after some time. Such actions can lead to engine jamming.
Specialized car dealerships have certain additives that are poured into the engine through the spark plug holes. If these additives are used skillfully, then they form the so-called «second skin» - an oil film that helps reduce oil consumption if oil consumption is increased due to wear on the working surfaces of the cylinders. However, we recommend using such additives only after appropriate consultation with a specialist.