2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Is Leaking Oil

Address Oil Leaks in Your 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Effectively

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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 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 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 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 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.

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 initial diagnostic steps to identify the source of an oil leak in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400?

To effectively identify the source of an oil leak in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400, start with a thorough visual inspection of the engine and the area beneath the vehicle. Look for any visible signs of oil, such as puddles or drips, particularly around the oil pan, valve cover gaskets, oil filter, and oil cooler. Next, check the oil levels in the engine; a significant drop may indicate a leak. Pay close attention to the oil filter and drain plug, ensuring they are secure and free from leaks. If necessary, tighten or replace these components. For a more precise diagnosis, consider performing a pressure test on the oil system, which can help pinpoint the leak's location. Additionally, adding UV dye to the engine oil can be a useful method; after running the engine, use a UV light to reveal the leak, as the dye will glow under the light. Finally, inspect the gaskets and seals, including the valve cover and oil pan gaskets, as these are common culprits for oil leaks. By following these steps, you can systematically diagnose and address the oil leak issue in your vehicle.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One frequent issue is a degraded or damaged oil pan gasket, which can wear out over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, valve cover gasket leaks are another common problem, as the gasket that seals the valve cover to the cylinder head can deteriorate, allowing oil to escape. Another area to inspect is the oil filter housing gasket; if this component fails, it can also result in oil leaks. Furthermore, the oil cooler seal can degrade, causing oil to leak from the cooler, while issues with the timing cover can contribute to leaks as well. Addressing these problems promptly is essential to prevent further engine damage and maintain the performance of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and thorough inspections can help you catch these issues early, ensuring your Mercedes-Benz E400 remains in optimal condition.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 is an urgent matter that should not be overlooked. Ignoring this issue can lead to a cascade of problems, starting with the risk of engine damage due to inadequate lubrication. As oil levels drop, engine components may experience increased friction and heat, which can ultimately result in costly repairs or even engine failure. Furthermore, maintaining optimal performance is crucial for the longevity of your vehicle; a timely fix ensures that your engine operates smoothly and efficiently. Safety is another critical concern, as oil leaks can create hazardous conditions, such as the risk of fire if oil drips onto hot engine parts. Additionally, the environmental impact of leaking oil can be significant, potentially contaminating soil and water sources. Therefore, it is essential to act quickly and address any oil leaks to safeguard your vehicle's performance, your safety, and the environment.

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2018 Mercedes-Benz E400 Oil Leak Causes & Repair Costs