Can I drive a car with an oil leak?

In most cases, no—do not drive a vehicle that’s leaking oil. Oil loss can lead to low oil pressure and engine damage, can ignite on hot exhaust components, and creates slick road hazards. If you notice an oil leak, safely pull over and arrange a tow to a repair shop. A small drip is not a guarantee that the problem will fix itself.

Why driving with an oil leak is dangerous

Oil lubricates engine parts and helps control heat. A leak means the engine may operate with insufficient lubrication, increasing wear or causing catastrophic failure. Oil on the road can create dangerous slick spots for other drivers, and leaking oil near hot exhaust components can pose a fire risk. Leaks can also hide other underlying issues, such as worn seals or failing gaskets, that may worsen quickly if not addressed promptly.

Common sources of oil leaks

Several components are commonly responsible for oil leaks in cars. Knowing where leaks typically originate can help you communicate with a mechanic and decide on towing rather than driving.

• Oil pan gasket or drain plug and washer


• Valve cover gasket


• Oil filter or its housing


• Oil cooler lines and fittings


• Crankshaft or camshaft seals (front/rear main seals)


• Oil pressure sensor or sending unit


• Seals at timing cover or nearby mating surfaces


• PCV valve or crankcase ventilation-related hoses

A small leak can worsen as the engine heats and cools through normal operation. If you see fresh oil staining or a steady drip, treat it seriously and seek professional diagnosis.

What to do if you notice an oil leak

Immediate safety considerations

Safety comes first. If you’re in traffic or near active roadways, find a safe place to stop as soon as possible. Do not continue driving long distances with an active oil leak, especially if the engine warning light is on, you smell burning oil, or you hear unusual noises from the motor.

Next steps involve assessing the leak and summoning professional help. The following steps are intended to minimize risk and avoid engine damage. Before you attempt any action, assess whether you can safely move the vehicle. If you’re unsure, call roadside assistance.

Before you proceed, consider the potential risk to you and others, and prioritize getting to a safe location rather than completing a trip.

1. Pull over to a safe, level spot away from traffic and apply the parking brake. Turn off the engine and allow it to cool briefly before handling anything under the hood.


2. If it is safe, check for obvious oil puddles beneath the engine and observe the source of the leak without leaning over hot components.


3. Check the engine oil level with the dipstick only if you can do so safely and without removing hot or pressurized covers. Do not open the hood or loosen fittings while the engine is hot.


4. Avoid driving the car to a shop. Oil loss can reduce lubrication and oil pressure, increasing the chance of engine damage. If you absolutely must move, keep the trip very short and only to a nearby safe location; towing remains the preferred option.


5. Call a tow truck or roadside assistance to transport the vehicle to a qualified repair facility for diagnosis and repair.

Driving even a short distance with an active oil leak can worsen engine wear or lead to a failure, so professional inspection and repair is the safest course.

What to expect at the repair shop

When you arrive at a shop, a mechanic will typically verify the source of the leak, inspect the oil level, test for leaks under pressure, and check for any related damage to seals, gaskets, or hoses. They will advise on the necessary repairs, which may include replacing gaskets, seals, or faulty components, and they will perform an oil change if needed.

Summary

Oil leaks are a serious safety and reliability concern. Do not assume a leak is minor or inconsequential. Prioritize safety by stopping in a safe location, avoiding further driving, checking oil levels only if safe, and arranging professional towing to a mechanic for a proper diagnosis and repair. Prompt attention can prevent costly engine damage and reduce roadside hazards.

How urgent is an oil leak?

An oil leak should be addressed as soon as possible, as it can lead to serious engine damage or a fire hazard. While a very minor leak might not be an emergency if you can consistently check and maintain the oil level, it can quickly worsen, and it's safer to have it fixed to prevent a larger, more expensive repair or a dangerous situation. 
When urgency is high

• Large puddle: A large amount of oil on the ground indicates a significant leak that needs immediate attention. 
• Engine won't start: If the car won't start and you suspect an oil leak, do not attempt to drive it. 
• Oil leaking onto hot parts: A leak dripping onto the exhaust manifold or other hot engine parts creates a high risk of smoke or fire. 
• Rapid oil loss: If you are frequently topping off your oil without seeing a large puddle, the oil may be burning internally, which can also cause significant damage and requires a professional diagnosis. 
• Increased engine noise or performance issues: Any sign of the engine behaving abnormally while leaking oil requires immediate attention. 

When urgency is lower but still important 

• Minor drips: Very small drips may not require immediate towing, but you should still get them checked out soon to prevent them from becoming worse. 
• Consistent monitoring: If the leak is minor, you can continue to drive for a short period, but you must check the oil level frequently and keep it at the correct level. 

Actionable advice

• Don't ignore it: Even small leaks can grow, and ignoring them is never a good long-term solution. 
• Get it inspected: Take your vehicle to a mechanic to have the source of the leak properly diagnosed and repaired. 
• Be prepared: If the leak is severe, have your car towed to avoid further damage. 
• Clean up spills: If you have an oil leak on your property, clean it up to prevent slipping hazards and environmental contamination. 

Is it okay to drive with a minor oil leak?

Quick Answer: Driving with an oil leak can be risky. While a small oil leak might not stop your car immediately, it can lead to severe engine damage over time. Low oil levels can cause engine components to overheat and wear out.

How expensive is it to fix an oil leak?

Depending on the type of vehicle you have, the engine that is in it and the location of the oil leak, repair costs can range from as little as $150 to as much as $1200. The good news is there is often another solution to repair your engine oil leak.

How long can you drive a car with an oil leak?

You should not drive with a severe oil leak, but you can drive for a short distance if the leak is minor and you monitor the oil level closely. A large leak can cause immediate and severe engine damage due to lack of lubrication, while even a small leak can lead to a fire hazard if the oil drips onto a hot exhaust system. 
Minor leaks

• What it is: A minor leak is often described as a "sweat" or just a few drips, where you may lose a quart of oil over 1,000 to 1,500 miles. 
• What to do: You can continue to drive, but you must check your oil level frequently (e.g., every few days or weekly) and add oil as needed to keep the level up. 
• When to fix it: Get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming a major problem. 

Severe leaks

• What it is: A severe leak involves a large amount of oil draining quickly, potentially leaving large puddles after you park. 
• What to do: Do not start the engine if you see a large puddle, as there may not be enough oil to lubricate it. Drive only as far as necessary to get to a mechanic, such as a few miles. 
• Risks: Driving with low oil pressure can cause severe engine damage, overheating, and total engine failure. 

Important considerations

• Fire risk: Oil dripping on hot exhaust components can cause smoke, a burning smell, or even a fire. 
• Engine damage: Even if you keep the oil level topped up, a leak can still cause long-term damage to other components and increase friction. 
• Get it checked: The best course of action is always to have the leak diagnosed and repaired by a mechanic as soon as you can.