Can I Drive My Car If It Has An Oil Leak?

Noticing oil dripping under your car is never a good sign. Whether it’s a small leak or a major problem, driving with oil leaks can lead to serious engine damage if left unaddressed. But how serious is it? Can you still drive your car, or should you park it and call a mechanic immediately?

In this guide, we’ll cover what causes oil leaks, how to identify them, and when it’s safe (or not) to drive with an oil leak.

Quick Answer: Driving with an oil leak can be risky. While a small oil leak might not stop your car immediately, it can lead to severe engine damage over time. Low oil levels can cause engine components to overheat and wear out. If you notice leaking oil, check the oil level and get the oil leak fixed as soon as possible.

What Does Engine Oil Do?

Engine oil plays a crucial role in keeping your car running smoothly. It:

• Lubricates moving components in the car’s engine
• Reduces friction and heat between engine parts
• Prevents wear and tear on critical engine components
• Helps maintain proper engine function in modern cars

When oil levels drop due to a leak, these functions are compromised, increasing the risk of severe engine damage.

How to Identify an Oil Leak

Common Signs of Oil Leaks

If you suspect your car is leaking oil, look for these warning signs:

• Oil spots on the ground under your vehicle
• A burning oil smell inside or around the car
• Smoke coming from the hot exhaust
• Low oil level when checking the dipstick
• An illuminated oil warning light on your dashboard
• Visible oil seepage around the oil filler cap, valve cover, or oil pan

Common Causes of Oil Leaks

Oil leaks can come from various sources, including:

• Degraded engine gaskets (like the head gasket or valve cover gasket) – Over time, gaskets can become brittle due to heat and pressure, leading to small cracks that allow oil to seep out. A failing head gasket can also cause oil to mix with coolant, leading to serious engine issues.
• A loose or worn-out oil drain plug – The oil drain plug, located at the bottom of the oil pan, can become loose due to improper installation or wear over time. A damaged or missing washer can also cause a slow but steady oil leak, leading to low oil levels if not addressed.
• An oil pan leak – The oil pan sits underneath the engine and is vulnerable to damage from road debris, speed bumps, or curbs. A dented or cracked oil pan can allow oil to escape, and if the damage is severe, it may require replacement rather than repair.
• Faulty seals or other components – Seals around the crankshaft, camshaft, and timing cover can degrade with age, allowing oil to escape. These seals are essential for keeping oil inside the engine, and once they fail, they can cause leaks that may worsen over time if not replaced.
• Cracked or failing engine parts – In rare cases, structural engine damage—such as a cracked engine block or cylinder head—can lead to oil leaks. These issues are often more serious and expensive to fix, sometimes requiring complete engine replacement if the damage is extensive.

How Much Oil Loss Is Too Much?

A small oil leak may not seem like a big deal, but even minor leaks can add up over time. If your car is losing oil rapidly or the oil level drops below the maximum markers, it’s a sign that you need to address the issue immediately.

Is It Safe to Drive With an Oil Leak?

Whether or not you can drive your car with an oil leak depends on the severity of the leak. Here’s a breakdown:

When It’s (Sometimes) Safe to Drive:

• The leak is minor, and you check the oil level regularly.
• The oil is only seeping from the oil filler cap or another non-critical area (like the oil filter).
• You’re driving a new car with a slow leak but are monitoring it closely.

When You Shouldn’t Drive:

• Oil is dripping rapidly or forming large puddles under your car.
• The leak is near hot engine components, increasing fire risk.
• The oil level is dangerously low.
• The leak has been ongoing, leading to reduced lubrication in your car’s engine.

If in doubt, it’s best to have the oil leak fixed before continuing to drive.

Risks of Driving With an Oil Leak

1. Severe Engine Damage

Without proper lubrication, your engine parts will wear down quickly. Low oil levels can cause overheating and even total engine failure.

2. Fire Hazard

Leaking oil can drip onto the hot exhaust, leading to smoke, burning smells, or even an engine fire.

3. Environmental Impact

Oil leaks contribute to pollution, harming both the environment and road safety.

Fixing an Oil Leak

If you’ve identified an oil leak, take action immediately. Here’s what you can do:

Short-Term Solutions

• Top up the engine oil to prevent low levels while you arrange a repair.
• Use a temporary oil leak sealant (only for minor leaks).

Permanent Fixes

• Replace degraded engine gaskets or a failing head gasket.
• Fix a damaged oil pan or replace a worn oil drain plug.
• Ensure all engine components are properly sealed.

Final Verdict: Should You Drive With an Oil Leak?

While it might be tempting to keep driving, ignoring an oil leak can turn a small leak into a major problem. If you’ve noticed external oil leaks, check your oil level and get the oil leak fixed as soon as possible.

Need Professional Help?

Don’t wait until your vehicle suffers severe engine damage! Auto Hero can connect you with trusted mechanics who specialize in oil leak repairs. Find a fix for your leaking oil today by comparing local service options at Auto Hero.

---

Written By

Matt Banks

Matt is the founder of Autohero.com.au and has been hooked on cars and repairs ever since childhood. A veteran in automotive since leaving school, Matt has completed his trade as a panel beater and is across all things with wheels. 

His first car was a 1967 FORD XR Wagon followed by a string of collectable Holden’s.

Have a question for Matt? leave a comment below.