521 E Los Angeles Ave E & F Simi Valley, CA 93065
(805) 624-7576
When someone reverses out of their garage and sees a stain, one of the first questions they ask is, “Why is my car leaking oil when parked?” This question is then quickly followed up by others, including, “Can you drive a car with an oil leak?” and even, “Wait, is that oil? “
If you’ve noticed your car leaking oil when parked, call Colony One Auto Repair today. We’ll answer your questions and get you back on the road as quickly as possible.
Verifying whether your car is leaking oil or another type of fluid
Oil isn’t the only kind of fluid that can leak from your vehicle when it’s parked. The easiest way to see whether you’re facing an oil leak or a different type of leak is to check the liquid’s color.
A quick guide to leaked fluid color and fluid type:
- Brown or black liquid = Oil
- Green or orange liquid = Coolant
- Red liquid = Transmission fluid
What does it mean when your car is leaking oil when parked?
Oil leaks manifest in many different ways, but if your car is leaking oil when parked, the vast majority of leaks are due to degraded engine gaskets, oil pan leaks, or bad oil seals and connections.
Your car’s oil pan is attached to the bottom of your engine. It holds the oil that lubricates the different parts of your engine when it is not in use. The oil drain plug, located at the base of the oil pan, must be loosened, and removed in order to drain the old oil.
Oil pan and oil drain plug are located on the underside of your car. Engine gaskets are located between most metal pieces bolted together, including but limited to the oil pan, oil pan drain plug, head gasket, the rear main seal, etc. These gaskets and seals are exposed extreme temperatures and the elements (such as road debris) which both cause wear and tear.
Can you drive a car with an oil leak?
It can be scary when you notice your car leaking oil when parked. Generally, it’s safe to drive very short distances. But it’s not safe to put off a visit to a car repair specialist after you notice that your car has been leaking oil, especially if your car is leaking oil fast.