Q: Oil leak around head

asked by on February 16, 2016

My car is leaking oil around the head.

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Most likely, the valve cover gasket has failed. Due to age and temperature changes, it’s possible that the rubber compound of the gasket has hardened and is no longer capable of sealing between the valve cover and the cylinder head. The valve cover gasket area will need to be inspected to ensure that this is the source of the leak. If it is, the valve cover will need to be removed, and the gasket replaced. The valve cover will need to be re-installed, and properly torqued to spec, and in sequence, to ensure a positive seal. You may want to enlist the the help of a mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, to inspect the oil leak, and make any necessary repairs.

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