2012 Nissan GT-R Is Leaking Oil

Discovering the Causes of Oil Leaks in Your 2012 Nissan GT-R and How to Address Them Effectively

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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 2012 Nissan GT-R 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 2012 Nissan GT-R 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 steps should I take to diagnose the oil leak in my 2012 Nissan GT-R?

When diagnosing an oil leak in your 2012 Nissan GT-R, it's essential to adopt a systematic approach that begins with the most straightforward checks before progressing to more complex diagnostics. Start by locating the leak; inspect the area beneath your vehicle for any oil drips or puddles, and examine the engine and transmission for visible oil stains. Next, check your oil levels to ensure they are adequate, as low levels can indicate a significant leak that requires immediate attention. Focus on inspecting gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover and oil pan gaskets, as these are common culprits for leaks. Additionally, examine hoses and lines, including the oil cooler and filter, for any signs of wear or damage. If the source remains elusive, consider using UV dye in the oil, which can help illuminate the leak under a UV light. For more challenging issues, a pressure test of the oil system can pinpoint hidden leaks. If these methods do not yield results, seeking professional assistance is advisable to ensure a thorough diagnosis and repair. By following this structured diagnostic approach, you can effectively identify and address the oil leak in your GT-R.

What are the common causes of oil leaks in a 2012 Nissan GT-R?

When dealing with oil leaks in a 2012 Nissan GT-R, it's crucial to understand the common culprits that may be at play. One of the primary causes is the degradation of gaskets and seals, particularly the valve cover and oil pan gaskets, which can wear out over time and lead to leaks. Additionally, a damaged oil filter or oil drain plug can also contribute to oil escaping from the system. It's important to inspect the oil cooler lines and their connections, as these can develop leaks due to wear and tear. Furthermore, the oil pan itself may suffer from cracks or damage, resulting in oil loss. Lastly, faulty oil seals in critical components like the camshaft or crankshaft can also be a source of leaks. Regular inspections and prompt repairs are essential for maintaining the performance of your GT-R and preventing potential engine damage.

How urgent is it to address the oil leak in my 2012 Nissan GT-R?

Addressing an oil leak in your 2012 Nissan GT-R is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical issue that demands immediate attention. Oil is vital for lubricating engine components, and a leak can lead to a dangerous loss of oil, which may compromise engine performance and efficiency. Over time, neglecting this problem can escalate into severe engine damage, resulting in costly repairs that could have been avoided. Moreover, an oil leak poses a significant safety risk, as oil dripping onto hot engine parts can ignite and lead to a fire hazard. By prioritizing the repair of an oil leak, you not only safeguard your vehicle's health and longevity but also ensure your safety on the road. Therefore, it is essential to act promptly and address any signs of an oil leak to prevent further complications.

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2012 Nissan GT-R Oil Leak Causes & Solutions | RepairPal