Why is there oil in my starter motor?
Typically when a vehicle has an oil-soaked starter, the problem is a slow oil leak in the engine’s rear main seal. Most rear main seal leaks are caused by the drying, hardening and shrinking of the main seal, plus normal wear in the crankshaft and seal. Rear main seal leaks can start at just 60,000 to 80,000 miles.
What happens if oil gets on the starter?
Oil Soak: Your vehicle’s starter is typically located near the bottom of the engine leaving it vulnerable to soaking from leaks. When the starter becomes oil-soaked it will shorten its remaining life. It is important to have the leak corrected and the starter replaced before it begins to malfunction.
Do starter motors have oil in them?
Starter, Soaked With Oil The starter is often located around the bottom of the engine. And, is vulnerable to soaking from leaks. An oil-soaked starter likely has, a short life remaining. Consider correcting the leak and replacing the starter, before a malfunction occurs.
How does oil get on starter?
Typically, when you notice an oil-covered starter, the oil leak is coming from the engine’s rear main seal, which unfortunately is common, especially in older cars. The oil leaks, gets covered with dirt and road grime, then more oil builds up on top of it, which is what this starter picture represents.
When does an oil leak get ugly, the oil soaked starter?
Most haven’t seen what an oil-soaked starter looks like, so we’ve taken some pics in our lab to show exactly how an oil leak can spread and damage the starter: Not a good problem to have. Rear main seal leaks can start at 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Many people won’t notice a rear main leak for a while as it is gradual.
What causes an oil leak in an engine?
An engine gasket is a seal that ensures that lubricants do not leak. When there is a break in the gasket, you will begin to lose vehicle fluids. In most cases, you will leak motor oil. The other less common causes of oil leaks are an oil pan leak, oil seals, or bad connections.
How long does it take for rear main seal to leak?
Rear main seal leaks can start at 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Many people won’t notice a rear main leak for a while as it is gradual. The oil leaks, gets covered with dirt and road grime, then more oil builds up on top of it, which is what this starter picture represents. It’s a slow process that can one day present problems you never knew you had.
What should I do if I have an oil leak in my car?
It seals rear main, cam seal and timing cover leaks, and restores shrunk and hardened seals. Most importantly, it’s safe and easy to use, even if you don’t know much about engines.