Q: Oil relief valve issue shortly after oil was changed

asked by on November 01, 2016

I had my oil changed yesterday. As soon as I got home noticed oil everywhere. The mechanic came and got car. After examining it, said the oil relief valve let go and charged me an additonal 250. I found it hard to believe that the valve would just happen to break immediately after having oil changed!!!! They refuse to take any blame. Thoughts???

My car has 170000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

I’m curious as to what "weight" of oil they put in. Most manufacturers now warn against using anything heavier than 10W30 for oil pressure relief valve (overpressure on cold start) reasons. While this is not common, overpressure due to a sticking oil pressure relief valve can occur. The oil filter would look "inflated" like a balloon fixing to burst - which in fact yours evidently did. It’s more common to have an oil filter overtightened, rupturing the oil seal ring, or not tightened enough, and it vibrates loose.

It’s hard to find a path to satisfaction here - comes down to trust and prior experience with the shop. If you want to take a different route in the future, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians can come to your home or office to service your vehicle.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do you use the blind spot mirrors?
Your car may have blind spot mirrors rather than standard side view mirrors (they’re optional equipment). If it’s so equipped, you have an important advantage when attempting to see vehicles to the side and behind, such as when you’re changing...
How do I use the ignition?
Using the ignition is very simple: insert the key, and rotate clockwise. There are four levels on the ignition: 1. Lock. This is the starting position, where you can insert or remove the key anytime you use the ignition. 2....
How do I return all vehicle personalization to factory settings?
You can customize many of your vehicle’s settings using the vehicle personalization setting. You can also use the vehicle personalization to return all of the customizable features to their factory settings. To return to the factory settings, use the audio...
Check Engine light; catalytic converter
When a catalytic converter begins to fail, the computer will give a reading of the code P0420 and/or code P0430 which pertains to catalyst efficiency. The catalytic converter is, in a way, like a metal filter that traps toxic gases...
Clunking under acceleration
Sounds like you might have a broken motor mount. Broken mounts are a common issue and easily fixable. Most front wheel drive cars have 3 engine mounts and 2 transmission mounts. Some have additional torque mounts, so no need to...
Overheating issue
The problem may not be a leak, but a malfunctioning water pump assembly (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/water-pump-replacement) or faulty thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement). Make sure the drive belt is properly routed and has good tension. If the coolant isn't flowing properly, the coolant in the...
Engine replaced, check engine light on again
Hello. There are several reasons why the Check Engine Light is on, but the Check Engine Light is not always an indication that the motor will need to be replaced. A Check Engine Light that is steady may indicate a...
My timing cover is leaking, and the guy that is working on my car told me that it doesn't really need to be fixed, Just check oil 2007 GMC Acadia
Hi there. Well, to be honest - I wouldn't recommend working with this mechanic much longer. Although a timing cover leak usually just causes oil to drip on your driveway, the reality is that it leaks because either the gasket...
What should I replace before getting front end aligned? 2006 Toyota Corolla 140k miles.
Hi there. Before having an alignment performed on your car, check the ball joints, control arm bushings, and the tie rod ends. These items will cause the tires to wander around wearing out the tread fast. If your tires have...

Related articles

What Is the Difference Between Regular and Synthetic Motor Oil?
Regular and synthetic motor oils each have their own benefits. Choosing the right oil for your engine depends on your car's age and how you drive.
The Best Used Cars to Buy For a Graduation Gift
Your Your little bundle of joy has grown up and on the cusp of entering adulthood. Graduating is a milestone, and you want to reward their hard work and show how proud you are. Buying a used car is a...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Valve
Common signs of a faulty PCV valve include excessive oil consumption, oil leaking, a blocked breather filter, and reduction in overall performance.