2014 Nissan 370Z Is Leaking Oil

Identifying the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2014 Nissan 370Z and How to Address Them Effectively

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Reviewed by
Devin Cabugcal
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 Nissan 370Z 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 Nissan 370Z 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 first steps to diagnose the oil leak in a 2014 Nissan 370Z?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2014 Nissan 370Z, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that prioritizes simplicity and effectiveness. Begin by locating the leak; check beneath the vehicle for any visible oil spots or puddles, as this can provide immediate clues about the source. Next, inspect the engine components, focusing on areas like the oil pan, valve cover gasket, oil filter, and oil drain plug, as these are common culprits for leaks. It's also crucial to check the oil level in the engine; a significant drop may indicate a leak that needs addressing. Pay special attention to the oil filter, as any signs of damage or leakage here can lead to oil loss. Lastly, ensure that the oil drain plug is secure and free from leaks, as a loose or damaged plug can exacerbate the problem. By following this diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify the source of the oil leak and take the necessary steps to resolve it.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2014 Nissan 370Z?

When diagnosing oil leaks in a 2014 Nissan 370Z, 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. Additionally, valve cover gaskets are another common source of leaks, as they can also wear out and fail to create a proper seal. The oil filter housing gasket is another area to inspect, as a failure here can result in oil seeping out. Furthermore, the rear main seal, located at the back of the engine, is prone to leaks as it ages. Lastly, the seals around the oil cooler can wear out, contributing to oil leakage. Addressing these issues promptly is essential to maintain engine health and performance, and regular inspections can help catch these problems early, allowing DIY enthusiasts to take action before more extensive repairs are needed.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2014 Nissan 370Z?

When dealing with an oil leak in your 2014 Nissan 370Z, the urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. An oil leak, if left unattended, can lead to serious engine damage due to inadequate lubrication, which is essential for the smooth operation of engine components. This lack of lubrication can cause overheating and ultimately result in engine failure, leading to costly repairs that could have been avoided with prompt action. Additionally, oil leaks pose environmental risks, as spilled oil can contaminate soil and water sources, contributing to pollution and harming local ecosystems. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing an oil leak quickly not only protects your vehicle's performance but also saves you money in the long run by preventing more extensive damage. Therefore, if you notice any signs of an oil leak, it is crucial to assess the situation immediately and take the necessary steps to repair it, ensuring both your vehicle's health and environmental safety.

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2014 Nissan 370Z Oil Leak Causes & Solutions | RepairPal