Ask John: What’s causing my Land Rover to leak oil?

Oil leaks can be frustrating and concerning for any vehicle owner, and Land Rovers are no exception. If you’ve noticed spots on your driveway or a burning oil smell, it’s time to get to the bottom of the issue. Here’s a breakdown of what might be causing your Land Rover to leak oil and what you can do about it.


Common Causes of Oil Leaks in Land Rovers

  1. Worn Out Valve Cover Gasket

    • The valve cover gasket seals the top of the engine and prevents oil from escaping. Over time, heat and age can cause it to deteriorate, leading to leaks.
  2. Oil Pan Damage

    • Your Land Rover’s oil pan is located at the bottom of the engine and is vulnerable to damage from road debris or rough off-road terrain. Cracks or loose bolts can cause oil to seep out.
  3. Rear Main Seal Issues

    • The rear main seal is located between the engine and transmission. If this seal wears out, it can result in significant oil loss, often visible near the back of the engine.
  4. Faulty Oil Filter or Drain Plug

    • A poorly installed or damaged oil filter can cause leaks. Similarly, the oil drain plug might loosen or its gasket could wear out after an oil change, leading to drips.
  5. PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) System Problems

    • The PCV system helps regulate pressure in the engine. A clogged or failing system can force oil out of seals and gaskets, creating leaks.
  6. Aging Seals and Gaskets

    • Land Rovers are precision-engineered vehicles, but seals and gaskets naturally degrade over time. Older models are particularly prone to oil leaks as these components age.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Oil Leaks

Driving with an oil leak can lead to serious engine damage if the oil level gets too low. Leaks can also damage other components like belts and hoses, and dripping oil poses an environmental hazard.


How We Can Help at John’s Auto Care

At John’s Auto Care, we’re experts at diagnosing and repairing Land Rover oil leaks. Our certified mechanics will:

  • Thoroughly inspect your vehicle to pinpoint the source of the leak.
  • Recommend the most effective repair options.
  • Use high-quality parts to ensure a lasting fix.

Whether it’s replacing a gasket, tightening a drain plug, or addressing a more complex issue like a rear main seal, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we’ll perform a full oil system check to make sure your Land Rover runs smoothly and safely.


Don’t Wait—Schedule an Appointment Today

If your Land Rover is leaking oil, bring it to John’s Auto Care in Boulder, Colorado. Our trusted mechanics are here to help you get back on the road with confidence.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our Land Rover services.

1900 55Th St Ste 104 Boulder, Colorado 80301 (303) 442-2932
John's Auto Care - Boulder is committed to ensuring effective communication and digital accessibility to all users. We are continually improving the user experience for everyone, and apply the relevant accessibility standards to achieve these goals. We welcome your feedback. Please call John's Auto Care - Boulder (303) 442-2932 if you have any issues in accessing any area of our website.