Oil Leak Diagnosis: Notes

Most fluid oil leaks are easily located and repaired by visually finding the leak and replacing or repairing the necessary parts. On some occasions, a fluid leak may be difficult to locate or repair. The following procedures may help you in locating and repairing most leaks.

Finding the Leak: 

1. Identify the fluid. Determine whether it is engine oil, automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid, etc.
2. Identify where the fluid is leaking from.
   1. After running the vehicle at normal operating temperature, park the vehicle over a large sheet of paper.
   2. Wait a few minutes.
   3. Find the approximate location of the leak by the drippings on the paper.
3. Visually check around the suspected component. Check around all the gasket mating surfaces for leaks. A mirror is useful for finding leaks in areas that are hard to reach.
4. If the leak still cannot be found, it may be necessary to clean the suspected area with a degreaser, steam, or spray solvent.
   1. Thoroughly clean the area.
   2. Dry the area.
   3. Operate the vehicle for several miles at normal operating temperature and varying speeds.
   4. After operating the vehicle, visually check the suspected component.
   5. If you still cannot locate the leak, try using the powder or black light and dye method.

Powder Method: 

1. Clean the suspected area.
2. Apply an aerosol-type powder, (such as foot powder), to the suspected area.
3. Operate the vehicle under normal operating conditions.
4. Visually inspect the suspected component. Trace the leak path over the white powder surface to the source.

Black Light and Dye Method: 

A dye and light kit is available for finding leaks. Refer to the manufacturer's directions when using the kit.

1. Pour the specified amount of dye into the engine oil fill tube.
2. Operate the vehicle under normal operating conditions as directed in the kit.
3. Direct the light toward the suspected area. The dyed fluid will appear as a yellow path leading to the source.