Oil Pan Replacement

LEARN MORE ABOUT OIL PAN REPLACEMENT

Why This Durable Auto Part Can Sometimes Go Bad

Imagine this: it’s just like any other day. You’re driving along, not a care in the world. The road seems a little rough, but you think nothing of it. Then BANG! You drop into a pothole the size of a Labrador Retriever and wonder to yourself: “What did I just do to my car?”

Believe it or not, drivers all around the world run into this problem every day. The answer can be different for all of them, but one of the most common results of such an excursion is an oil pan leak. Suddenly, this sturdy part, one that was supposed to last the life of your vehicle, is not doing so well. That’s when it’s time to get a replacement oil pan.

LOCK IN THE BENEFITS OF YOUR OIL PAN REPLACEMENT

Once your new oil pan is installed, we make it easy for you to keep your vehicle in top condition with these additional services:

DO YOU NEED A REPLACEMENT OIL PAN?

While it is more common for oil pans to be replaced due to impact damage, issues can also occur due to long term exposure to excess heat or moisture. This means that you may not have an idea that your oil pan is damaged until the problem becomes obvious. Here are some common signs that yours might need to be replaced:

  • Drips and Puddles –  Once your oil pan or gasket gets damaged, oil will start leaking, usually starting as a drip, then graduating into a puddle.
  • Stripped or Damaged Drain Plug –  When you go to inspect your oil pan or change your oil, you may notice some wear and tear on your drain plug. This usually means that the integrity of the seal is compromised, and you should replace it. However, sometimes the plug does not have a comparable part and cannot be replaced without replacing the pan as well.
  • Engine Overheating –  This is usually indicated on your vehicle’s dash, accompanied by a burning smell. It is often a sign of significant damage, since your vehicle likely does not have enough oil to control the temperature in the engine.

Some people will also go to get their oil pan inspected after an impact, such as running over a pothole. This is often a very good idea, as it can take care of the problem before it gets worse—and more expensive.

CAN YOU REPLACE AN OIL PAN AT HOME?

While it is true that the oil pan is usually held in place by a simple bolt, replacing an oil pan is still a messy, and sometimes complicated, job. Some vehicles even require the removal of a suspension sub frame, which can take hours to fully disassemble and reassemble. 

Because of this we recommend seeking out an expert for your oil pan replacement. You’ll save valuable time and effort in the process.

THE BENEFITS OF AN OIL PAN REPLACEMENT

Save Money – Oil leaks can get expensive: using up valuable oil that will need to be replaced to keep your vehicle working. Leaks can also damage surfaces, wracking up more costs.

PREVENT REPAIRS – Less oil in your vehicle at any given time increases the risk of damage to other parts of your engine, potentially racking up significant repair costs.

IMPROVE PERFORMANCE – Even if you’re only dealing with a small leak in your oil pan or gasket, your vehicle will not run at an optimal level until you get the leak repaired.

HOW TO PREVENT OIL PAN LEAKS

Since oil pans can, theoretically, last the life of your vehicle, you might be wondering what you can do to prevent related issues. Our experts have the answers:

  • Drive Carefully
    Oil pans usually get damaged by rough impact with a hard surface or flying debris. Opt for driving on well maintained roads, maintain a safe speed, and watch for potholes and other problems.
  • Inspect & Protect
    Use the owner’s manual that came with your vehicle to determine what you need to inspect, when. This will help you spot problems before they become serious.
  • Partner Up
    One of the best things you can do for your vehicle is to find an experienced, knowledgeable mechanic to perform maintenance, make repairs, and give advice.

Time to give your oil pan some TLC.

Is your vehicle leaking oil? TLC Auto & Truck Repair Service Center is ready to stop that leak in its tracks! We are a family-owned shop that has been providing exceptional service since 1991.