Even the simplest of engines is a fascinating piece of engineering that involves an assortment of parts with varying tolerances and diverse composition functioning in unison. When there’s metal-against-metal action, there’s friction and needless to say, it must be controlled. New cars tend to be covered by warranty and come with the assurance that they’ve never been used before. So if anything goes wrong, the dealer/manufacturer takes care of it. This is not the same with used cars.
When one buys pre-owned, there’s a high chance of being saddled with a lemon, if one isn’t careful. The engine being the heart of the car is also one of the most crucial components that can burn a hole in the pocket if not evaluated properly. This is why; it is crucial to know how to check for engine oil leak when shopping around in the pre-owned market.
The first thing one must do is check the dip-stick. Cars with a leaking engine typically tend to have less than optimal oil levels. So if the oil level is anything but as per manufacturer recommendations, proceed with caution.
Another thing that a dip-stick inspection reveals is if there’s sediment in the oil. In most instances, where there’s a leak, there’s sub-par lubrication, which leads to increased friction and if left unchecked, trace amounts of metal shavings in the oil.
While one is at it, an inspection of the engine bay on the whole is a must when it comes to used cars. Oil leaks tend to get on hoses in the engine compartment and these often leave tell-tale signs which cannot be hidden.
Also, take the car for a drive and pay close attention to noise from the engine bay. An engine may idle silently, but reveal its poor health once it has warmed up sufficiently. So it is extremely important to know how to check for an engine oil leak. Often, a simple fix is all that’s required. But don’t just take the word of the seller for it. Ask detailed questions. If it is a car that you’ve particularly liked, then seek a second opinion from an independent evaluator who has the necessary knowledge and experience to assess things.
Lastly, go by your gut-feel. If the deal in question feels shady, stop and don’t proceed until all doubts have been cleared to your satisfaction.
