2009 Mercury Milan Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2009 Mercury Milan and How to Address Them

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
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 2009 Mercury Milan is leaking oil are oil system component failure and leaking engine gaskets.
  • Oil System Components: A failure in oil system components, such as a worn oil pump or clogged oil filter, can lead to 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 2009 Mercury Milan 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 2009 Mercury Milan?

When tackling an oil leak in your 2009 Mercury Milan, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Start by checking the fluid levels, including engine oil, as this can often reveal the source of the leak. If the oil level is low, inspect for worn-out gaskets or damaged seals, which are common culprits. Look closely at the valve cover, oil pan, and timing cover, as these areas are prone to wear over time. If you suspect low oil pressure, this could indicate a more serious issue, so ensure that the oil pressure is within the normal range. If the problem persists or if you find oil leaking into the spark plug well, it may be time to consult a professional for a thorough inspection. Regular maintenance is key; monitoring fluid levels every two weeks can help you catch leaks early, preventing further engine damage and costly repairs. By following these steps, you can effectively diagnose and address oil leaks, ensuring your Mercury Milan runs smoothly.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2009 Mercury Milan?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2009 Mercury Milan, it's essential to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary issues is gasket failure, which can occur over time due to wear and tear, leading to oil seeping from various engine components. Additionally, the oil cooler line can corrode, particularly in vehicles that have been exposed to harsh weather conditions, resulting in leaks that can be difficult to trace. Another frequent source of oil leaks is a faulty or damaged oil filter; if the filter is not properly sealed or has sustained damage, it can allow oil to escape. It's also crucial to regularly check fluid levels, as leaks can sometimes originate from other fluids, such as power steering or brake fluid, which may mimic the symptoms of an oil leak. Symptoms to watch for include oil pooling under the vehicle, oil stains on the driveway, or oil seeping from the oil drain plug, oil filter gasket, rear main seal, or even a loose oil fill plug. Addressing these issues promptly is vital to prevent further damage to the engine and maintain the vehicle's performance.

How urgent is it to address an oil leak in a 2009 Mercury Milan?

Addressing an oil leak in a 2009 Mercury Milan is a matter of urgency that should not be overlooked. Ignoring an oil leak can lead to severe engine damage, which may result in costly repairs or even engine failure. Common causes of oil leaks, such as worn-out drain plugs or damaged gaskets, can escalate if not fixed promptly, leading to more extensive issues within the oil system. Symptoms like oil pooling under the vehicle or spots on the driveway are clear indicators that action is needed. While it may be possible to drive the car temporarily by adding oil, this is not a long-term solution and can exacerbate the problem. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the source of the leak and address it immediately to ensure the vehicle's reliability and safety, ultimately saving time and money in the long run.

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2009 Mercury Milan Oil Leaks: Causes & Repair Costs