Recently I was told while getting my oil change that I have a minor oil leak. I was told that it's from the Oil Pan Gasket.

Does anyone know if this is a big deal and the cost of fixing it??

 

Its not that big of a deal Its a real simple fix. It becomes a problem when your oil level starts dropping. They didn't offer to replace it? The gasket like $15 If it was the dealership then I understand why you walked away

 

No, they didnt offer to fix it. I figure it'd be cheaper to get the part myself and have my brother fix it as he's handy with cars. I will contact an auto parts center and get the part.

Do you have any idea if its difficult to get to the gasket?.. my brother works on mostly american cars and he wasnt sure if it was a big deal to get to it but from your response it'll be easy

 

Just jack the car up. Remove skid plate, drain the oil theres like 8-12 bolts on the pan remove them that it replace the gasket and put it back

 

Here is a shot under the car for reference (the oil pan is the black pan right in front of the cross member):

 

The lower oil pan is attached with RTV not a pre-made gasket.

 

^^ Thats what I was gunna say, we don't have gaskets.

 

Haha.. I wasnt even thinking about that. To me "oil pan gasket" = RTV. You can even see the RTV in that pic I posted.

 

I noticed some places do sell gaskets. Is it better to use the RTV? Is there a specific brand that is recommended for this application?

Also, is there any other places near the lower oil pan that is prone to leak. I read the oil line tube near the oil filter may leak also.

If Jiffy Lube is the one telling you about the leak it could be from anywhere. I don't tend to trust their evaluations.

mnky brother

 

U should be fine with just RTV when you remove the pan make sure you scrap and clean all the excess crap and old sealer off so when you apply the new you get a perfect seal

 

permatex, done!

 

I use permatex high temp red, like 5 bucks at autozone or napa.

 

Also, be sure to let the RTV dry before you reinstall the pan. If you dont, tightening down the pan may cause the RTV to get pressed out and you will be right back where you started.. maybe worse off.

 

I disagree with this. RTV should be applied when pliable and the bolts tightened but not torqued. Once dry then you torque the bolts.

 

I guess that would work, as well. I have never had issues with my method, either. Just have to make sure to get a nice even layer all the way around. I guess I dont let it dry COMPLETELY, either... more to the point where its starting to feel solid and wont be pressed out when the bolts are torqued.

 

You can get a gasket at napa...i did

 

Be sure to let the RTV cure overnight. Refill oil only after it has.

 

Really? Did they have to custom cut it?

 

Yes, MnkyC35 Bro is correct... i called and they offer both Upper and lower oil pan gaskets for $10-13 bucks.

 

The service manual says nothing about waiting for the sealant to dry or cure before you torque the bolts.