Oil Leak
The problem
Oil leaks range from a slow seep you notice on the driveway to a active leak that drops pressure while driving. The urgency depends on how much oil you're losing and how fast — not just whether there's a spot on the pavement.
Symptoms
- Fresh oil spots where you park
- Burning oil smell after driving
- Low oil level on the dipstick between changes
- Oil on exhaust or under the engine bay
- Blue smoke at startup
Can I keep driving with an oil leak?
A small seep with normal oil level on the dipstick — check level, top off if needed, and schedule inspection soon.
If oil drops quickly, the low-oil light comes on, or you smell heavy burning, stop driving until level is verified.
Never drive with the oil light on — even briefly.
Common causes
- Valve cover or oil pan gasket seep
- Oil filter housing or drain plug seal
- Rear main or front crank seal (higher mileage)
- Cam or crankshaft position sensor o-rings
- Turbo or power steering lines mistaken for engine oil
What happens next at LugsNPlugs Automotive?
- 1. Tell us how fast the level drops and where you see wetness.
- 2. We clean and inspect to distinguish seep from leak, then trace upstream.
- 3. Repair priority follows safety — active leaks and low pressure come first.
Colorado Springs independent repair — dealer-level diagnostics, not a call center. Browse all common problems