2023 Chevrolet Suburban Is Leaking Oil

Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2023 Chevrolet Suburban and How to Address Them Effectively

Find Repair Location
Reviewed by
Aisha
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
80% chance it's the
Oil System Components
0%
20% chance it's the
Engine Gaskets
The most common reasons a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A worn or damaged oil pump or filter can lead to low oil pressure, resulting in inadequate lubrication and potential engine damage.
  • Engine Gaskets: A worn or damaged engine gasket can lead to oil or coolant leaks, resulting in engine overheating or loss of lubrication.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is leaking oil?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

Oil pans don't wear out or break like other parts, they generally only need to be replaced because of external damage from an accident or an improperly tightened drain plug. The main symptom you will experience is an oil leak underneath the engine of your car. The oil that leaks from a damaged oil pan will range from dark brown to dark black. If the leak is large enough or occurs for long enough the oil level will be low enough to turn the oil pressure or low oil level warning light on.

An oil leak may be noted on the ground where the vehicle is parked. However, many vehicles have plastic trays underneath the engine that may catch leaking oil and conceal the leak. In such cases, a low oil level, a burning oil smell, or even smoke from oil burning in the engine bay may be noted.

»MORE: Signs of a bad oil pan gasket

A bad oil level sensor may cause a false reading of the engine oil level. The oil level warning light may illuminate even when the oil level (checked manually) is within an acceptable range. The warning light may also come on and off intermittently if the sensor is faulty. An error code may be sent to the PCM and a check engine light may come on the dashboard as well if the sensor is bad.

The engine oil pressure warning light will come on if the engine oil pressure is low, or if the oil pressure sensor is faulty. In either case, engine power may be reduced significantly. The check engine light may also illuminate, and an on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble code will be stored in the vehicle's computer.

What steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2023 Chevrolet Suburban?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2023 Chevrolet Suburban, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simplicity before delving into more complex issues. Begin by locating the leak; check beneath the vehicle for any visible oil spots or puddles, which can provide immediate clues. Next, inspect the engine components, focusing on areas like the oil pan, valve cover gaskets, and oil filter, as these are common culprits for leaks. It's also crucial to check the oil level in the engine; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs addressing. Pay special attention to the oil filter and oil drain plug, ensuring they are secure and free from damage. The oil pan gasket is another frequent source of leaks, so examine it closely for any signs of oil accumulation. Additionally, don't overlook other components such as oil cooler lines and the oil pressure sensor, as they can also contribute to leaks. If your inspection does not reveal the source of the leak or if the situation appears complicated, seeking the expertise of a mechanic is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and effective repair. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can efficiently identify and address the oil leak in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a worn or damaged oil pan gasket, which can deteriorate over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, a faulty or improperly installed oil filter can also be a source of oil leakage, so checking its condition and installation is essential. Another area to inspect is the oil drain plug; if it is loose or damaged, it can allow oil to escape. Furthermore, valve cover gasket leaks are common, particularly as the vehicle ages, and these can result in oil seeping from the top of the engine. Lastly, don’t overlook the oil cooler lines, as leaks in these lines can contribute to oil loss as well. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to maintaining engine health and performance, and regular inspections can help catch these problems early, allowing for effective DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2023 Chevrolet Suburban?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2023 Chevrolet Suburban is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to a significant drop in oil levels, which compromises the lubrication of essential engine components. This lack of lubrication can result in increased friction, leading to premature wear and tear or even catastrophic engine failure. Furthermore, an oil leak can cause the engine to overheat, a situation that not only escalates repair costs but can also leave you stranded. The safety implications are equally concerning, as leaking oil can drip onto hot engine parts, creating a fire hazard. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of an oil leak promptly to safeguard your vehicle's performance and your safety on the road.

You’ve got options with RepairPal

Whether you need a more accurate auto repair estimate or help finding a reputable shop in your area, we’ve got you covered.