Is Your BMW Leaking Oil After An Oil Change? Know the Reasons Here

Has your car started leaking oil just after an oil change? The cause of such a problem can be anything from a loose drain plug to a damaged gasket. In either case, your ignorance may allow a minor mechanical problem to escalate to the point where it cannot be fixed. Therefore, it is worth knowing why a motor oil leak can sometimes occur just after an oil change.

To help you diagnose the issue with your system, we're sharing with you some of the (most likely) reasons that can result in an oil leak after an oil change. But first, let’s take a moment to discuss why routine oil changes are so important.

Here’s Why Routine Oil Change Is Important for Your Car

Engine oil has many different functions, including providing lubrication to moving parts of the engine, protecting metal parts from corrosion/acid, preventing sludge build-up, keeping the interior clean, and regulating the engine temperature.

The list is long, isn’t it? However, all these activities cause the oil to oxidize and become contaminated. The failure to replace sludgy oil in time can result in a variety of problems, such as;

 Oil passages will become clogged.

 Acid and corrosion will damage crucial engine parts.

 Engine temperature will skyrocket.

 Engine performance and gas mileage will be adversely affected.

It's for this reason that you should change your engine oil periodically. If you are using conventional motor oil, replace it every 3,000- 5,000 miles. But, if you are using synthetic oil, it can last up to 15,000 miles.

Car Leaking Oil after an Oil Change? Likely Reasons Explained

#1- Loose oil drain plug

A loose drain plug can cause the motor oil to seep out of the engine just after an oil change. Because over time the drain plug can become riddled with rust. This will cause it to wear out and loosen- causing the oil to leak through. The solution to this problem is very simple. It is just a matter of replacing the bad plug and the problem will be resolved.

#2- Improper installation of oil filter

It goes without saying that oil change and filter replacement goes hand in hand. An oil filter serves to keep the engine oil clean. The filter will, however, become saturated with various types of contaminants and sludge over time. Each time you change your car's oil, you must replace the oil filter if you care about the engine's well-being. But, you must stay cautious while doing so. Because a tiny error in the installation process can cause an oil leak.

#3- Bad gasket or seal

Head gasket, valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, manifold gasket and pump gasket are some of the major gaskets a car engine relies on for various purposes- one of which is preventing oil and coolant from leaking out of the engine. Thermal fatigue and prolonged exposure to extreme pressure can cause these gaskets to wear out over time. And, this may result in an engine oil leak shortly after an oil change.

#4- Cracked oil pan

If there is something wrong with the oil pan, your car may leak oil soon after changing the oil. You can think of an oil pan as a kind of reservoir where oil gets stored when the engine is not running. Physical damage of any form to a part of such importance can result in an oil leak. Therefore, if your car is leaking oil, your first priority should be to check the oil pan. If it is damaged, replace it right away.

Car Leaking Oil after an Oil Change? Do This

Finding an oil leak shortly after an oil change can be very unsettling. It is fortunate that dealing with such a problem is not that big of a deal. It will not take long for a professional to find out what's wrong with your car and why is it leaking oil.

Bottom Line

If your car is leaking oil just after an oil change, it could indicate anything from a loose drain plug to serious engine trouble. And, if you do nothing, it may escalate to the point where it cannot be fixed. It is therefore important that you take your car to a nearby car service center so that the real culprit can be diagnosed.