Ways to Prevent Oil Leaks in Your Audi

Because they can occur in many different areas of a car, oil leaks are often frustrating to deal with and even worse to track down. And just like any vehicle, an Audi is susceptible to them. Oil leaks can be caused by a variety of factors, both in and outside of your car. And while nobody wants to deal with an oil leak, there are several measures you can take to prevent leakage before it gets too problematic.

Common Causes of Oil Leaks

One typical cause of oil leaks is exposure to extreme temperatures. Extreme temperatures, especially when rapidly alternating between hot and cold, can cause your vehicle’s metal components to expand and contract. High temperatures can weaken your engine over time and cause gaskets and seals to become compromised, creating potential sources for a leak.

Misaligned components in your vehicle is another major cause of oil leaks. The oil filter, drain plug, oil pan, and cooler lines are all likely sources to look at if you are experiencing a leak. These leaks can result from the component not fitting correctly or if an element is jostled out of place while the car is operating.

Leaks can also be due to corrosion and roadway debris, which can cause aspects of your vehicle to fail.

Warning Signs of Oil Leaks

It might be a bit obvious, but if your oil light is on, that’s a safe indication a leak is present in your car. Unfortunately, an illuminated oil light is a sign a leak has been affecting your vehicle for a while, because the light only comes on when pressure is too low.

The smell of burning oil is another common indication of an oil leak. Depending on where the leak originates in your vehicle, the oil might drip onto the car’s hot components, resulting in a burning smell.

A high engine temperature is a sign of too-little oil, which is likely caused by a leak. If you hear a grating or grinding noise coming from your vehicle, it’s likely due to a lack of lubrication. It indicates you don’t have enough oil in your car and suggests a potential leak.

How to Prevent Oil Leaks

Schedule regular car checkups. Because an oil leak can occur in so many areas of the car, it can be nearly impossible to determine where it occurs yourself. Scheduling regular checkups on your vehicle will allow a mechanic to determine if certain parts are wearing out and need to be changed.

Change your oil on schedule. Changing your oil based on the manufacturer’s service schedule also allows you opportunities to catch misaligned components responsible for an oil leak. Most Audi vehicles have a 10,000-mile oil life. Changing the oil at this interval will ensure a scheduled opportunity to discover potential leak sources.

Choose your type of oil carefully. Utilizing an oil with leak-stopping additives can be an easy way to help mitigate potential oil leaks. These additives can cause degraded gaskets to swell, which tightens their seal. Using an Audi-approved oil will also help ensure your vehicle is getting the type of oil it needs.

Add a leak-stopping additive to your regular oil. If you currently do not use an oil with leak-stopping additives, you can purchase an additive. Adding this to your oil will soften the gaskets and cause them to swell, stopping a leak if it originates in that area.

Utilizing an additive is a temporary solution and not recommended for more substantial leaks. We recommend you schedule a mechanic visit to ensure the problem is addressed correctly.

Prevent Oil Leaks at Landmark Motors

While you can discover a leak source on your own, we recommend an expert mechanic to ensure proper inspection and repairs, especially if it is a more intense leakage.

At Landmark Motors, we have helped drivers like you get the most out of your European vehicle. We are based in Bellevue, WA and provide quality service and care throughout the Seattle area and surrounding communities.

We service a variety of European models, such as Audi, Jaguar, Volkswagen, Mercedes and BMW, utilizing the latest factory-grade tools and equipment for any services you need. Call us today for an appointment or to speak with one of our knowledgeable technicians.