You’re driving down the road, minding your own business, when you hear a loud POP! Suddenly, there’s a loud bang and your engine begins to sputter.
Before you know it, oil is all over the engine and smoking. It’s a nightmare scenario for any car owner, but it’s also a harsh reality for many.
If this happens to you, don’t panic. There are several possible causes for an engine blowing oil, and most of them can be fixed without too much trouble.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most common causes of an engine blowing oil and how to fix them. So, let’s get started.
What are the Reasons that Cause Oil to Blow?
Oil exploding all over the engine is a common occurrence in engines, and it can cause a variety of problems that can be difficult to diagnose and repair. Knowing what can cause oil to blow is the first step to addressing the issue and preventing it from happening again. Here are some of the most common causes of oil blowing and their solutions:
- The oil Filler Cap Is Missing
One of the notable causes of engine oil blowout is a missing oil filler cap. It is very common to face the oil cap blowing off while driving. The oil filler cap is a small, usually round, cap that sits on top of the engine’s valve cover. Its purpose is to seal the opening through which oil is added to the engine.
When the cap is missing, oil can escape from the engine and be blown out through the filler hole. This can lead to a decrease in oil pressure, increased friction and heat in the engine, and eventually engine damage.
To prevent an engine from blowing oil due to a missing oil filler cap, it is important to regularly check the oil level and ensure that the oil filler cap is securely in place. Also, regular maintenance, such as oil changes and inspections, can help to identify and fix any potential issues before they lead to engine failure.
- A Leaking Valve Cover Gasket
A valve cover gasket is a seal that sits between the valve cover and the cylinder head of the engine. Its primary function is to prevent oil from leaking out of the engine. However, over time, the gasket can become worn or damaged, which can cause oil to leak out of the engine.
The symptoms of a leaking valve cover gasket are often quite obvious. One of the most common signs is oil leaks or drips around the valve cover area. Also, the engine may produce smoke or have a burning oil smell. The oil pressure gauge may also show a low reading, which can indicate that the engine is not getting enough oil.
The solution to this problem is to replace the valve cover gasket. It is a relatively simple process and can be done by a mechanic or someone with basic mechanical skills. The valve cover must be removed, and the old gasket must be carefully scraped off.
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Once the old gasket is removed, the valve cover and the cylinder head must be cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. The new gasket can then be applied, and the valve cover can be reinstalled.
- Worn Engine Rings
Engine rings are the components of an engine that help seal the combustion chamber, allowing for efficient combustion and preventing oil from entering the exhaust system. Over time, engine rings can become worn down due to heat, pressure, and age, resulting in oil leakage.
The only way to fix this problem is to replace the old, worn engine rings with new ones. This is a relatively easy job for experienced mechanics and can be done by anyone with the right tools and knowledge. New engine rings will help restore the seal between the combustion chamber and the crankcase, preventing oil from leaking out and improving engine performance.
- Bad O-Ring
The O-ring seals the valve cover to the head of your engine and prevents oil from leaking from the valve cover. If it’s cracked, oil can easily escape and cause your engine to “blow oil”. To check for a cracked O-ring, you can use a flashlight and examine the valve cover carefully for signs of leakage. If you spot any, your O-ring likely needs to be replaced.
The good news is that this repair isn’t especially difficult or expensive, as long as you’ve got the know-how and all the necessary tools. Generally speaking, replacing an O-ring should only take about an hour and can usually be done with essential hand tools like an adjustable wrench and socket set. So if you think this might cause your problem, check it out before taking your car to a mechanic.
- Failed PCV System
If the engine in your car is blowing oil anywhere, it could be due to a failed PCV system. The PCV system (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) is responsible for controlling the pressure inside the crankcase of your engine. When it fails, it can result in pressurized oil being forced out of any weak spots in the engine, such as seals and hoses.
To diagnose this issue, you’ll need to take a look at the PCV valve itself. If it’s clogged or damaged, you’ll need to replace it with a new one. Additionally, you should also check for leaky hoses or other components that could be causing oil to escape from the crankcase. A failing PCV system is a headache, but with some patience and effort, you can get your car running smoothly again!
- Unscrew Oil Cooler Bolt
If you have an oil cooler in your vehicle, it’s also possible for a loose bolt to be the culprit. Whenever an oil cooler has been installed incorrectly, the bolts can loosen over time and cause oil to leak from the engine.
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To fix this problem, simply check the bolts and tighten them if necessary. If the bolts are already tight, it may be necessary to replace them with new ones. In either case, make sure to use the correct grade of the bolt when replacing them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What would cause oil to blow everywhere in my truck?
The most likely cause of oil blowing everywhere in your truck is a leak in the engine. This could be caused by several things, such as a worn-out gasket, a damaged oil filter, or a cracked oil pan. It is important to have a qualified mechanic inspect your truck to determine the exact cause of the leak and repair it promptly.
Q. Why is there oil splattered all over my engine?
Though there are various reasons responsible for it but the most likely cause of oil splattering all over your engine is either a major oil leak or an oil pressure issue. If you recently changed your oil, it is possible that you did not tighten the filter or oil drain plug correctly. If you have not changed your oil recently, you could have an issue with your oil filter, oil pump, or oil pan gasket.
Q. Why is there oil on top of my engine cover?
The oil on top of your engine cover is likely caused by a leaking valve cover gasket or oil cap. If the valve cover gasket is leaking, it will cause oil to seep out onto the engine cover. If the oil cap is leaking, it could be caused by a faulty seal or a loose cap, which will cause oil to spray onto the engine cover.
Q. Can I drive my car with oil all over the engine?
Simply to answer, yes you can drive. But it’s not recommended. Driving a car with oil all over the engine can be very dangerous. It can cause the engine to overheat, which can cause significant damage to the engine. It is best to have the oil cleaned up and the engine checked by a professional mechanic before attempting to drive the car.
Conclusion
Engine oil blowouts can be a serious and costly problem for car owners. Regularly checking and changing your oil, as well as being mindful of any warning signs, such as low oil pressure or strange noises, can help keep your engine running smoothly.
In this article, we try to share the possible causes of the engine blowing oil everywhere and their solutions as well. Hopefully, you enjoy this article and get an overall idea. Thank you all.