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Is my oil filter housing leaking?

In Fluids by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Sometimes, finding the cause of an oil leak takes a little digging.

A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited was brought in for a wheel alignment and tire rotation. While it was in the shop, we saw oil leaking from the engine oil filter housing.

When the oil filter housing leaks, it can run down the back side of the engine and onto the transmission. So, you don’t get a leak up front. If it leaks bad enough, it will pump all the oil out of the engine and burn the engine up.

The original housing was aluminum and plastic. We replaced it with an all aluminum part.

What is an oil filter housing?

Oil filter housing replacement.

Oil filter housing replacement

As the name implies, oil filter housings “house” the oil filter.

Every car is designed differently. The housing can either be plastic or metal, and be on top of or underneath the motor. It all depends on the engine design. 

Essentially, it’s a container for a paper filter. Metal filters don’t have a housing, you just screw them into the engine and it goes to an adapter. That’s the majority of vehicles up until around 2000. Then, they came out with cartridge filters, which come with a cap. 

If it has a housing, more than likely it’s a paper filter, not a metal filter.

How do you know when your oil filter housing is leaking?

A visual inspection is really the only way to find out if you have a leaking oil filter housing. 

We have found that the most common oil filter housing problems are with certain vehicles, like Jeeps and Dodges. They’re plastic and in the valley of the engine. So, you have to be over top of them to see the oil leak. 

The only way to find the leak in there, is to have it angled down, because you can have a leak in that valley for so long and it will spill off the back side and you’ll never see it. 

Toyotas and Lexus have plastic oil filter houses underneath that like to strip and crack. So, they have metal upgrades for both filter houses.

Is it safe to drive with a leaking housing?

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited oil leak.

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited oil leak.

Whether it’s safe to drive when the oil filter housing is leaking depends on how bad the leak is. If you have a bad leak, the oil can drip onto the exhaust and can cause a flame. 

If you run your car out of coolant or oil – because it carries both of them – then it could damage the engine.

Is it worth repairing or replacing an oil filter housing?

The short answer is “Yes”.

If you don’t repair or replace the oil filter housing, you can run the vehicle out of oil or coolant. If you run the engine out of oil, it can lead to unnecessary friction. If you run the car out of coolant, it will overheat.

What are other oil leak causes?

The oil filter housing leaking isn’t the only source of oil leaks.

Leaks can also occur if the oil pan is damaged or the valve cover gasket has become worn. Other possible causes include the oil filter going bad and the oil drain plug becoming loose are other possible causes.

Oil leaks also stem from bearings and seals.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Dale City, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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What are signs of power steering fluid leaks?

In Fluids, Maintenance by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Car leaks, at times, seem to appear out of thin air.

For certain types, a warning light may appear or you might see fluid on the ground near your car.

Some leaks can cause driveability problems and be more difficult to track down. Others might be found unexpectedly by an auto repair shop.

Power steering fluid leaks are one of the kinds you can encounter.

Can I drive with a power steering leak?

You shouldn’t drive if there’s an active power steering fluid leak. When the power steering fluid is too low, that steering wheel can get very tight, making it more difficult to drive.

How do I know if I have a power steering fluid leak?

Power steering fluid leaks can affect a vehicle’s steering capabilities. So, it’s important to address them as soon as possible.

How do you know if there’s a leak?

If the rack and pinion is leaking, drivers might see power steering fluid drops on the ground.

Power steering reservoir.

Power steering reservoir

But leaks aren’t always going to be visible, especially if they’re related to hidden components. Many times, technicians come across this problem when performing other maintenance.

However, certain symptoms may appear.

Low power steering fluid is one sign of a leak. We check the fluids during our courtesy inspections.

Sounds are another possible indicator. You might notice low or high pitched noises as you’re turning. They could also be heard before or when a steering wheel stiffens.

Where does power steering fluid leak?

Power steering fluid leaks aren’t isolated to one component – they can spring up in several spots, including:

  • Bellows boots
  • Power steering coolers
  • Power steering pump
  • Power steering reservoir
  • Power steering lines
  • Rack and pinion

When a power steering leak is present, we may find a damp part (such as a bellows boot) or discover fluid underneath a car.

It’s possible for cracks to develop on return lines and hard lines.

Leaks could also occur at the suction line.

Power steering coolers can leak, too. You might see these on trucks and certain SUVs.

How do you fix power steering fluid leaks?

Our process for resolving a power steering leak depends on its location. 

For example, leaks from the power steering pump would lead to a pump replacement. We don’t reseal the pump anymore. 

Hard lines that are leaking power steering fluid would be replaced, rather than repaired.

If the leak is coming from one of the rubber lines – the return lines – you don’t reclamp it, you do the whole thing. 

The end seals on power steering racks like to leak, at times. These are no longer resealed. Instead, the whole rack is replaced.

How do I maintain my power steering system?

Power steering fluid exchange on a Toyota Tacoma.

Power steering fluid exchange on a Toyota Tacoma

Regular maintenance will help you get the most out of your power steering system.

Power steering fluid exchanges remove contaminants and prevent parts from wearing out prematurely.

When you take care of this system, you can keep it running as it was designed and avoid unnecessary repairs.

What type of power steering fluid should I use?

To prevent possible damage to components, it’s important that the steering system is operating off of the correct type of power steering fluid.

Some cars require a certain kind of fluid. For example, European power steering fluid is needed on European vehicles.

So, if the steering system is due for maintenance or a repair, check with the shop to see what kind of fluid they use.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Dumfries, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Summer car maintenance: What does it look like?

In Battery, Cabin Air Filter, Fluids, Maintenance by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Summer has officially begun.

For many, the new season will bring a slew of outdoor activities, trips, and much-needed rest and relaxation.

As you start filling your summer schedule with fun in the sun, you will want to prepare your vehicle for any time you plan to spend on the road.

Having it inspected by an automotive expert can help prevent unwanted breakdowns or repairs. 

Summer car maintenance tips

Before embarking on any day trips or vacations, take a look at our summer car maintenance checklist:

Air conditioning: When your car ac cuts out or isn’t working properly on a stifling summer day, it can be miserable. Make sure that the system is blowing cold air that can keep you and your passengers comfortable. Possible culprits behind a/c problems can include a bad compressor, blocked condenser, low freon, and wiring issues.

Dirty cabin air filter on Honda Odyssey.

Dirty cabin air filter on Honda Odyssey

Air filters: Now that pollen season is over, a new cabin air filter may be needed. This helps the air stay fresh and free of dirt. Your cabin air filter also helps your air conditioning system breathe. Plus, if this filter is clogged, it can force your blower motor to work harder.

Battery: When was the last time your battery was replaced? If it’s been a while, ask an automotive technician to perform a battery test. (While they’re at it, it wouldn’t be a bad idea for them to check the alternator and starter.) Extreme heat (just like extreme cold) can finish a weak battery.

Brakes: The braking system consists of many parts, including brake pads and rotors, calipers, and brake hardware. Brake repair might be needed if the brakes are low and any components are stuck.

Drive belts: Depending on the type of vehicle you use, it may have one or multiple drive belts that go around essential components. To protect these items and enable them to work as designed, confirm that these belts aren’t worn, loose, frayed or broken. 

Fluid levels: How are your fluid levels looking? This includes your coolant and antifreeze. Depending on the fluid level and quality, there could be a leak or the car might be due for mileage-based services.

Tire puncture on Toyota RAV4.

Tire puncture on Toyota RAV4

Tires: High quality tires ensure that you have proper traction when the roads are dry and during any scattered thunderstorms you pass through. Before heading out for a trip, have someone check the tire tread and tire pressure. They should also confirm that the tires are wearing evenly and there are no tire injuries.

Windshield wipers: During your travels, you may hit a few bugs and some rain. Replacing torn or damaged windshield wipers will help keep your windshield clear of smudges and streaks.

Preparing for a safe summer

The warmer months can look differently for everyone. They might bring sports games, family vacations, or just hanging out in your hometown.

By following these summer car maintenance tips, you can ensure that your plans aren’t bogged down with a trip to an auto parts store or repair shop.

These basic checks also offer protection on those long stretches of road.

Whatever this season has in store for you, we hope it’s a safe and pleasant one for you and your loved ones.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Manassas, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Winter car safety tips

In Battery, Brakes, Cooling System, Fluids, Headlamps, Maintenance by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Today is the first day of winter.

Following a few winter car safety tips can help protect you on road trips, while you run errands, and anything in between.

Make sure your car is up-to-date on maintenance services.

Battery, brakes and belts

Car battery test on a BMW 328i.It’s a good idea to have a battery test performed, because weak car batteries are more likely to die during very hot and cold times of the year.

You should also ask an automotive expert to take a look at the timing belt – which surrounds pulleys – and the serpentine belt – which wraps around engine components.

Measuring brakes on a Toyota Sienna.

Measuring brakes on a Toyota Sienna

The brake system needs to be working correctly, as well. This includes the brake pads and rotors, calipers, brake hardware, and anti-lock braking system (ABS).

For a vehicle to operate safely, pads and rotors must be at 2/32 of an inch or more. If the red brake light or ABS light turn on, bring it to a shop or a mechanic as soon as possible.

Taking care of your windshield is also critical. Windshield wipers should be replaced if they are torn or leave streaks, making it difficult to see. Using washer fluid with the right temperature protection level helps prevent it from freezing.

More winter car safety tips

Other components we recommend getting inspected are:

  • Car lights
  • Coolant and other fluids
  • Tires and tire pressure

Cloudy headlight lenses on a Volkswagen Jetta.Winter is made up of shorter nights, rainy days, and snowy conditions. To help prevent accidents, car lights need to be checked regularly. When needed, replace any bad bulbs for headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, and fog lights. 

Headlights can grow foggy, and headlight restoration can be used to clear them up. Depending on how long you plan to keep your vehicle, it might be best to just replace the headlight assemblies.

Low coolant on a Hyundai Elantra.

Low coolant on a Hyundai Elantra

It’s important to keep an eye on a car’s fluids, as well. This includes the oil, coolant, transmission fluid, windshield washer fluid, and power steering fluid.

Fluid that’s lower than normal may be a symptom of a leak. If certain fluids – like power steering fluid – appear dark, your vehicle could be telling you it’s time to replace them.

If an auto repair shop performs a coolant fluid exchange or tops off your coolant, make sure they put in the right kind. 

Coolant can be blue, red, purple, pink, orange or green. The type a car uses depends on the metal used for the engine.

Checking the tires is another one of our winter car safety tips.

Has it been a while since you purchased tires? Is the tread getting close to 3/32 of an inch or 4/32 of an inch? It may be time to invest in new tires. Goodyear Tire and Kelly Tire produce all season options. Winter tires are also available.

You should also ensure that they have the right amount of air. As the temperatures dip, tire pressure decreases. Driving on low tires can impact their lifespan.

Many vehicles are equipped with a tire-pressure monitoring system (TPMS). If yours is, be watchful for the TPMS light, which may turn on if one or multiple tires don’t have enough air.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located near Lake Ridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.

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Oil leaks on BMWs

In Fluids by Steves Auto Repair and Tire

Some car problems can be fixed with just one small piece. However, sometimes replacing that part can be more labor intensive than is expected.

Earlier this week, we addressed an oil leak on a BMW. Our customer brought the vehicle in, because they noticed lots of oil loss. They had even gotten into the habit of carrying around jugs of oil, because they knew they had an oil leak but didn’t know where it was coming from. The undercarriage of the car was completely saturated.

The BMW needed a new alternator bracket oil seal, which can harden and become brittle after a period of time. 

To complete this project, our technician had to remove fan components and the alternator. The engine was also lifted up and the engine mounts were taken off. Then, everything was put back together. This process took a number of hours.

Oil seal.

Oil seal

Why oil is important

Different areas of the engine need to be lubricated by oil in order to work properly, and there are oil pressure sensors associated with certain components. This is why it’s important to have regular oil changes performed. 

We recommend this service every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but the frequency depends on the vehicle and manufacturer recommendations.

A lack of oil in the system may result in an overheating engine or an engine seizing.

What can cause oil leaks?

The oil seal going bad is a common problem among V8 style engines. They can start leaking so badly that the oil gets too low, causing engine damage. The seals will, literally, pump the engine dry. So, when these components go bad it’s very important to have them fixed as soon as possible.

Depending on the location of the leak, it could impact the timing belt, serpentine belt and other parts.

Aside from a bad seal, there are several other issues that can lead to oil leaks, such as a damaged oil pan, worn valve cover gasket, and a clogged PCV system.

You may have an oil leak if you notice engine noise, the oil is low, there’s a puddle of oil – which can be brown, black or yellow – near the vehicle, or the car is experiencing running problems.

The oil pressure light turning on is another indicator to watch out for. It warns you that the oil pressure is decreasing. If you notice this symbol come on, you should safely stop the vehicle and check the oil level. 

Finding oil leaks

If you notice any of these symptoms, reach out to a mechanic or auto repair shop near you. They can help you find the source of the leak early on and prevent it from growing into a bigger problem.

Our process for finding oil leaks varies among vehicles. Our Woodbridge mechanics usually start by inspecting the three main areas oil will leak from – the valve covers, the timing cover, and the oil pan. There are also different parts that need to be checked within those areas.

If the oil leak is widespread, they will clean it off, add UV dye, drive it for a bit, and see where the first spot is.

Steve’s Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Goodyear tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including BMW and Mercedes. Services include oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.