2016 Ford Transit-150 Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2016 Ford Transit-150 and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Andrew Hajjar
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 2016 Ford Transit-150 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 2016 Ford Transit-150 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 are the steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2016 Ford Transit-150?

To effectively diagnose an oil leak in your 2016 Ford Transit-150, start with a systematic approach that prioritizes simpler checks before moving on to more complex diagnostics. Begin by locating the leak; inspect the ground beneath your vehicle for any visible oil spots, which can help you identify the general area of the leak. Next, conduct a thorough inspection of the engine components, focusing on critical areas such as the oil filter, oil pan, valve cover gasket, and oil drain plug. Look for any signs of oil residue or damage that could indicate a leak. It's also essential to check the oil level in the engine; a significant drop may suggest a more serious issue. Pay special attention to the oil filter and oil pan, as these are common culprits for leaks. Ensure that the oil drain plug is securely tightened, as a loose plug can lead to oil loss. If the source remains elusive, consider performing a pressure test to accurately pinpoint the leak's location. 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 2016 Ford Transit-150?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2016 Ford Transit-150, 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 it's important to ensure that the filter is correctly fitted. Another potential problem is a loose or damaged oil drain plug, which can allow oil to escape from the oil pan. Valve cover gasket leaks are also common, as this gasket can wear out and fail to seal properly, resulting in oil seeping out. Lastly, the oil cooler gasket can be a hidden source of leaks if it fails to maintain a proper seal with the engine. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage, and regular maintenance checks can help you catch these problems early, allowing for a smoother and more efficient vehicle operation.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in a 2016 Ford Transit-150?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2016 Ford Transit-150 is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity that can prevent severe consequences. An oil leak compromises the engine's lubrication, leading to increased friction among moving parts, which can result in costly damage or even complete engine failure if left unchecked. Moreover, the safety risks associated with oil leaks cannot be overlooked. Oil dripping onto hot engine components poses a fire hazard, endangering both the vehicle and its occupants. Additionally, the environmental implications of leaking oil are significant, as it can contaminate soil and water sources, contributing to broader ecological damage. Therefore, it is crucial to act swiftly and address any signs of an oil leak to ensure the safety, performance, and longevity of your vehicle.

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Common Oil Leak Causes in 2016 Ford Transit-150 | RepairPal