Is the oil pan under the car?

Yes. In most conventional cars with internal combustion engines, the oil pan is mounted to the bottom of the engine, making it a component that sits under the car when viewed from underneath. Note that fully electric vehicles do not use a traditional engine oil pan, and some hybrids use different lubrication layouts, but for typical gasoline/diesel engines the oil pan is a bottom-mounted reservoir for engine oil.

This article examines where the oil pan is located across common engine layouts, how to identify it on your vehicle, and the safety considerations and maintenance steps involved in inspecting or replacing it.

Typical oil pan placement in car designs

Engine layout dictates how the oil pan sits relative to the car’s undercarriage. Here are common configurations you’ll encounter on modern passenger cars.

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (longitudinal)

In this setup, the oil pan is mounted on the bottom of the engine block, facing downward. It is typically accessible from beneath the front half of the vehicle, which is the most common arrangement in traditional body-on-frame designs and many modern sedans and coupes.

Front-engine, front-wheel drive (transverse)

Here the engine is mounted sideways; the oil pan sits below the engine and is often reachable from beneath the vehicle’s center or passenger side, depending on the model. The compact layout can place surrounding components closer to the pan, affecting accessibility.

Rear-engine or mid-engine layouts

Even with engines placed toward the rear or mid-body, the oil pan generally remains at the bottom of the engine. Access can be more challenging due to surrounding structures and geometry; service manuals guide the exact approach.

Dry-sump and alternative systems

Some high-performance or specialized vehicles use dry-sump lubrication, which eliminates a traditional oil pan. In these systems, the oil is stored in external tanks and pumped to the engine; the bottom area may contain a sump in the block or a much smaller reservoir, rather than a conventional pan with a drain plug and gasket.

Across layouts, the oil pan remains a bottom-mounted feature in most engines; the exact access points vary by vehicle. Hybrid powertrains and some electric vehicles may present different configurations, but the general principle holds for engines that require an oil reservoir.

How to identify the oil pan and basics of inspection

To locate the oil pan on your car, use these practical steps and visual cues, especially if you’re checking for leaks or planning maintenance. The aim is to confirm you’re looking at the right component and to know what to expect for drainage and gasket checks.

Steps to locate and inspect

• Park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and safely raise the front of the vehicle with a jack, then place jack stands under the frame or pinch welds for support.


• Slide under the vehicle and locate the engine bay; look for a flat metal tray bolted to the bottom of the engine—usually rectangular or trapezoidal in shape.


• Identify the drain plug at the lowest point of the pan; this is where the engine oil drains during a change.


• Note surrounding components (exhaust, transmission, crossmembers) that can limit access; this helps you position a collection pan for a change.


• Check for signs of leakage around the pan gasket or drain plug; oil on the undercarriage or on the ground beneath the car indicates a seal or connection issue.

With the pan identified, understanding its location helps you plan maintenance, diagnose leaks, and work safely beneath the vehicle. If you’re unsure, consult your vehicle’s service manual or a qualified mechanic for model-specific guidance.

Maintenance and safety considerations

Maintenance tasks involving the oil pan require careful adherence to safety and cleanliness to prevent injuries and spills. Here are key guidelines to follow when working around the oil pan area.

• Always support the vehicle securely on jack stands on level ground; never rely on a jack alone to hold up the car.


• Allow the engine to cool before touching the drain plug or the pan to avoid burns from hot oil.


• Use the correct drain plug size and a new gasket or washer when removing or reinstalling the pan to prevent leaks.


• Contain used oil with an appropriate catch pan and dispose of it properly at a recycling facility.


• Inspect the pan, gasket, and drain plug for cracks or wear; replace gaskets if you remove the pan again, and consider replacing the drain plug washer on reinstallation.

Regular inspection and proper maintenance can prevent leaks and protect the engine’s lubrication system. If you notice persistent oil seepage or a significant drop in oil level, seek professional service to avoid engine damage.

Summary

In most conventional internal combustion engine cars, the oil pan sits under the engine as part of the bottom-mounted lubrication system. The exact location and access can vary with engine layout—front- or rear-engine configurations, transverse mounting, or even dry-sump designs—while electric vehicles generally do not use a traditional engine oil pan. Understanding where the pan resides helps with maintenance, leak detection, and safe vehicle service. Always prioritize safety and consult your vehicle’s manual or a professional for model-specific guidance.

Where is the oil pan on a car located?

The oil pan is located at the bottom of the engine and is the reservoir that holds the engine oil. It is a metal tray bolted to the engine block, and you can find the oil drain plug on it when looking underneath the vehicle.
 
This video shows how to locate the oil pan on a car: 1mKamsiparts Automotive YouTube · Dec 13, 2023

• Location: The oil pan is the lowest part of the engine. 
• Function: It stores the engine oil and has the drain plug for oil changes. 
• Identification: Look under the engine for a metal pan at the very bottom. You will also see the oil drain plug on it, as described in JustAnswer. 

This video shows how to change the oil after locating the oil pan: 2:23Demi BagbyYouTube · Nov 16, 2025

How much does an oil pan cost to replace?

Replacing an oil pan typically costs between $200 and $1,000, with the average often falling around $600 to $1,100 for most vehicles, including parts and labor. The total price depends on the vehicle's make and model, labor rates at the shop, and whether other parts like the gasket need replacement. 
Cost breakdown

• Parts: An aftermarket oil pan can range from approximately $150 to $700 or more, depending on the vehicle and brand. Some replacements may also require new gaskets or sealant. 
• Labor: The cost for labor is generally between $200 and $400 for most cars. The job can be more time-consuming on certain vehicles, which increases the labor cost. 
• Dealer vs. Independent Shop: Repairing at a dealership is often more expensive than at an independent shop. Independent shops may have lower labor rates and more experience with specific repairs. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury, high-performance, or less common vehicles can have significantly higher costs. 
• Labor rates: Hourly labor rates vary depending on the shop's location and the specific repair shop. 
• Additional parts: If the oil pan is damaged, it is common to replace the gasket as well, which will add to the total cost. 
• Job complexity: Some vehicles require removing other components like exhaust parts or even lifting the engine to access the oil pan, which can increase labor time. 

Is the oil pan underneath the engine?

The oil pan is a vital component of your car's engine system, situated underneath the engine.

Is it better to repair or replace an oil pan?

If you don't have a problem with the oil pan, don't replace it. It doesn't need to look nice to function properly. It's just a bowl of oil with the oil pickup tube in it. Lots of people dent their oil pans and most never even know it.