Oil leaks aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a warning sign that something is wrong under the hood. If ignored, even a small leak can lead to low oil levels, overheating, increased engine wear, or in worst-case scenarios, complete engine failure. Whether you're dealing with a fresh puddle in your driveway or the smell of burning oil, it’s important to act quickly.

At Bruce Brothers Tire Pros, our expert technicians are here to help you identify the source of the leak and take care of it before it turns into a major (and expensive) repair.

Common Causes of Engine Oil Leaks

Worn Gaskets and Seals

Over time, rubber seals and gaskets wear out, especially in high-temperature areas. When components like the valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket break down, they can start to leak oil, often slowly at first.

Loose or Damaged Oil Filter

Something as simple as an improperly installed or cracked oil filter can cause an oil leak. A missing or misaligned O-ring during an oil change is a common culprit we see often in the shop.

Cracked or Damaged Oil Pan

Hitting a pothole, speed bump, or curb can crack the oil pan, especially on low-clearance vehicles. This can lead to a continuous oil leak that will only worsen over time.

Rear Main Seal Failure

The rear main seal is located between the engine and transmission. When it fails, oil can leak into the bell housing—and if your vehicle is manual, it can contaminate the clutch and cause it to slip or fail completely.

Signs You Might Have an Oil Leak

Not all oil leaks are obvious, but there are a few warning signs to watch for:

• Oil spots under your car after it’s been parked for a while
• Burning oil smell when the engine is hot
• Low oil levels between oil changes
• Dashboard warning lights, especially the oil pressure light
• Smoke from the engine bay, usually caused by oil dripping onto hot surfaces
  
  

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a vehicle inspection.

Why Oil Leaks Should Never Be Ignored

Motor oil isn’t just there to lubricate—it helps clean and cool your engine’s internal components. When your engine runs low on oil, parts grind against each other, temperatures spike, and your risk of permanent damage goes way up.

Even small leaks can result in:

• Reduced fuel efficiency
• Damage to engine sensors
• Corroded rubber hoses and belts
• Total engine failure in severe cases
  
  

Taking care of an oil leak early can save you thousands in the long run.

Schedule Your Oil Leak Repair at Bruce Brothers Tire Pros

If you think you might have an oil leak—or just want peace of mind—bring your vehicle to Bruce Brothers Tire Pros. Our certified team will quickly identify the source of the problem and provide honest, no-pressure recommendations to get you safely back on the road.

Don’t wait for a warning light to tell you there’s a problem. Contact us today to schedule your oil leak inspection.