2014 Honda Civic Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2014 Honda Civic and How to Address Them Effectively

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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 2014 Honda Civic 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 2014 Honda Civic 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

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 potential causes and diagnostic steps for an oil leak in a 2014 Honda Civic?

When tackling an oil leak in your 2014 Honda Civic, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin with a thorough visual inspection under the vehicle to identify any obvious signs of oil pooling or dripping. Next, check your oil level; a rapid decrease can indicate a significant leak. Inspect the oil pan for cracks or damage, as this is a common source of leaks. Ensure that the oil filter is securely installed and free from defects, as a faulty filter can lead to oil escaping. Additionally, examine the gaskets and seals for wear, as these components often degrade over time and can be culprits of leaks. If these initial checks do not reveal the source, consider conducting a pressure test to pinpoint the leak more accurately. By following this methodical approach, you can effectively diagnose and address the oil leak, ensuring your Honda Civic remains in optimal condition.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2014 Honda Civic?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2014 Honda Civic, 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 significant leaks. Similarly, valve cover gasket leaks are another common problem, as the gasket that seals the valve cover to the cylinder head can wear out, allowing oil to escape. Additionally, oil filter leaks can occur if the filter is faulty or improperly installed, resulting in oil seeping from the filter housing. Another area to inspect is the rear main seal, located at the back of the engine, which can develop leaks as it ages. Lastly, the oil cooler seal is also a potential source of leaks, as it can fail and cause oil to leak from that area. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage and ensure your Honda Civic runs smoothly. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections can help you catch these problems early, allowing for effective DIY repairs.

How urgent is it to address an oil leak in a 2014 Honda Civic?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2014 Honda Civic is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is an urgent necessity that can prevent severe damage and safety hazards. Oil is vital for lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to a significant loss of oil, resulting in insufficient lubrication. This can increase friction within the engine, potentially causing costly damage over time. Moreover, oil leaks can create dangerous situations, as oil dripping onto hot engine parts may ignite, posing a fire risk. Continuing to drive with an oil leak can also lead to dangerously low oil levels, which can cause the engine to overheat and ultimately fail. Therefore, it is crucial to address any signs of an oil leak immediately to safeguard your vehicle's performance and ensure your safety on the road.

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