Your Jaguar’s engine is a complicated system of hundreds of parts working together to achieve drive and motion. As a result of this complex machinery, there are a variety of reasons as to why oil may leak. This article will list some of the most common reasons for this, as well as what you should do about oil leaks, should they occur. It is important to note that if you find oil anywhere in your engine that it shouldn’t be, or on the ground below your vehicle, it is vital that you take your car to a professional for diagnosis.
Damage
One of the most common reasons of oil leaks in a Jaguar is damage to one of the many parts around the engine and oil systems. As the engine has to deal with high heat as well as regular use, there is always the possibility that parts can warp or break, causing opportunities for oil to leak.
Some of the most common places to look for damage include the oil filter, which is responsible for catching the debris and contaminants which can be found in engine oil. This is known to slip from its position on occasion, allowing oil to leak. It is also common for the oil drain plug and oil pan to become damaged, most often from impacts, typically from larger pieces of debris, either from the oil or the road. This type of oil leak will most commonly be identified by oil drops on the ground below your Jaguar.
Oil Quality
Oil that is of poor quality, usually cheap unknown brands offered as comparative to firm favorites, can also cause quite extensive oil leaks. Oil that is old and in need of replacing can also cause leaks. Cheap or unsuitable engine oil often have more contaminants and are without the necessary conditioners and additives, which are included to help guarantee peak engine performance. This lack of quality oil can force the part of your engine and oil distribution system to become clogged or to work harder that necessary and become worn out much faster, leading to damage and subsequent leaks.
Crack in the Cylinder Head
This is a less common cause of an oil leak, but cracks in the cylinder head still should be something you are aware of. A crack in the cylinder head creates an opening in the contained system, allowing oil to seep out. This issue is most noticeable when the oil reaches the coolant system. It can be diagnosed by checking the oil cap and coolant cap. If both either have visible traces or oil or smell of oil, then it is likely the cylinder head is at fault.
Other Signs
Other common issues which can cause oil leaks include:
- Damage to piston rings
- Damage to valve seals
- Poor gasket installation
- Holes (usually around seals, valves, or gaskets)
- Oil levels that drop faster than expected
What You Can Do
Unless you have auto mechanic skills, it is unlikely you’ll be able to repair an oil leak. You can help to prevent problems from occurring by ensuring your Jaguar is well maintained. Good maintenance practices to the oil system include using good quality oil, changing the oil as per your owners manual, ensuring engine parts are well serviced, and monitoring the oil levels within your Jaguar.
Monitoring oil levels will help you to spot an oil leak faster than you might normally. If your oil level is consistently dropping or dropping far faster than it used to, it will be obvious that a leak is occurring somewhere in the system, even if there is no visible sign of it as yet. This allows you to nip the issue in the bud, reducing the risk of further parts failure and saving you money in the long run.
Seek Maintenance and Repairs
If you’re concerned about a potential oil leak in your Jaguar, it is important not to delay repairs. If you live in or around Winter Park and Orlando, FL, a team of dedicated experts are located just a short drive away. Green Garage specializes in European auto repair and offers an impressive 3-year warranty on all work. This allows you to drive away with complete peace of mind. With a range of coupons also available, you will save money too.
