2003 Kia Optima Engine Leak Inspection Cost

Engine leak inspections are conducted to ensure the engine is staying sealed at all times. While this normally is focusing on oil loss, coolant loss may be found as well. This works well for maintaining a vehicle that has been identified as losing oil, as a cooling system inspection is typically conducted if the engine is leaking coolant.

An engine leaking oil does not always make a puddle on the ground. A burning smell may be noticed from the front of the vehicle after driving. This is because engine oil leaks may fall onto hot engine components, especially the exhaust manifold, and burn off before making it to the ground. This poses a risk to the engine because the leak going unnoticed may deplete the engine oil reserve, and lead to an oil starvation issue. Some engine oil leaks only occur while the engine is running, so the leak may be larger than the small spot on the ground makes it seem.

For many small oil leaks or oil seepage, the vehicle may be driven to a repair facility. A moderate to large leak should not be driven. Besides pouring engine oil onto the ground, the vehicle may suffer internal engine failure due to oil starvation. If the engine is leaking enough oil to make a puddle, it should be towed into the repair facility to prevent further damage. Get this fixed by a RepairPal Certified Shop

Most vehicle's will have an oil leak at some point in their useful service life. Changing engine oil according to the manufacturer's recommendations will help prolong gasket and seal life.

When diagnosing oil leak symptoms, the technician will conduct a visual inspection of the entire vehicle. There are many systems that can leak fluid. Depending on the progression of the leak, cleaning of suspected areas and usage of UV dyes may be necessary to pinpoint the leakage. Failed engine oil seals and gaskets can cause a mess in the engine bay or along the undercarriage, masking the origin of the fluid. Once leaking components have been resealed or replaced, the engine will be inspected again to ensure a complete repair.

Replacing an engine seal or gasket can be very easy, but many require deconstruction of components or even engine removal. Some repairs involve removal of timing components, and internal engine components. In most cases, the oil is drained and the filter replaced. If sludge is found when the seal or gasket is replaced, the technician may make additional service recommendations.

We recommend against any products that claim to stop engine oil leaks. These products can create blockage in oil passages and clog oil filters. Such conditions lead to internal engine damage. It is better to have the leak repaired correctly.

There are many types, grades, and certifications of engine oil. Before adding oil to your engine, be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations. Consulting your owner's manual is the best way to ensure you are using the correct fluids for your vehicle. Modern engines are especially sensitive to the kind of lubricants used. If there is any uncertainty of what to top off with, contact your local certified shop.

Some engine oil leaks are easy to identify and repair. However, there are many that require extensive deconstruction of larger components and are not recommended for the typical DIYer. An improperly installed seal will fail and leak worse than the original offender. Leaks behind timing components, or those that require engine removal are best left to professionals.