​Have you ever noticed the slick rainbow sheen baked onto the pavement in a Miami parking lot? Or maybe you’ve seen a fresh, wet spot that shimmers in the light. Those are the two surest signs that whichever car was there before you parked has an engine oil leak — and they can be dangerous. This quick guide will teach you how to detect oil leaks in Hyundai vehicles, and the steps for how to fix an oil leak.
What Damage from an Oil Leak Can I Expect?
If you catch an oil leak early enough and bring it in to be fixed, you can likely dodge most issues. However, if an oil leak goes unchecked or unnoticed for too long, it can cause serious engine damage (and, therefore, much higher car repair bills).
Oil lubricates and cools your engine, so when there isn’t enough due to a leak, your engine needs to work harder, which causes unnecessary wear and reduces performance. You also run the risk of your engine overheating, causing serious problems under the hood.
Engine Oil Leak Signs and Symptoms
Several warning signs exist that your Hyundai has an oil leak, and one or more can be present at any time. Bringing your car in for routine maintenance with a trusted expert is the best way to catch issues early, as a professional mechanic knows how to detect oil leaks in Hyundai vehicles.
There are also several symptoms you can look out for when you get in and out of your car, including:
- Oil drips and puddles underneath your car
- Warning lights on your dashboard
- Burning oil odors
- Sizzling sounds from your engine
- Low oil levels when you check the dipstick
Common Places for Oil Leaks in Hyundai Engines
An oil leak can spring at several locations under the hood, so it’s best to inspect your engine when you can to narrow down the source as quickly as possible. Here’s a quick checklist for Hyundai oil leak locations:
- Weak, broken, or missing gaskets and seals
- Components that have corroded or rusted
- Faulty oil pressure relief valves
- Old filters
- A damaged oil pan
- Bonus tip: Ensure you’ve filled your oil to the max line without going over, as additional oil can clog the system and wear down the pieces listed above.
Can I Fix Oil Leaks Myself?
While it is certainly possible to check for and fix oil leaks yourself with the right knowledge, skill set, and tools, it is advised to bring your Hyundai to a trusted, Hyundai-certified dealership for inspection and repairs. Maintenance experts at Hyundai dealerships in Miami are held to the highest standards and know the ins and outs of all Hyundai vehicles in the fleet, so they are able to quickly diagnose oil leak issues and fix them quickly.
Check for Oil Leaks at Braman Hyundai Miami
Wherever you are in Southern Florida, if you’ve experienced any of the warning signs of an oil leak, bring it to Braman Hyundai in Miami for inspection and repair. Our experts are ready to help get your vehicle back into perfect condition so you can continue to drive to work, school, or wherever you need to go.
Contact us here to set up your appointment, or call our service and parts center at (786) 574-3313 to speak with a professional.