Oil Leaks from holden commodore?

Question

I have a Holden Commodore VT '98, 3.8L V6 saloon and lately noticed oil spots on drive way. Not much, but enough to have closer look and looks dark/black in colour. Engine oil I guess. Where abouts in engine will this leak occur? And will it develop in to a major problem if not corrected soon? Level on dipstick seems to be okay.

Thank you all

Answer 1

Any shaft into or out of an engine seals can leak oil drain plug gasket valve cover gaskets. And a GM 3.8 Holden Favorite leak is the intake manifold gaskets. Fresh oil helps keep engine seals soft. Modern High Mileage motor oil also helps condition old seals. Hope It is that delevery van some one parked in your drive way get it looked at soon Mate!

Answer 2

Commodores are famous for the rear main seal leak. This leak can be found on many many many Ecotec engines from 1988 VN until the 2003 VY Commodore. Holden did not have a fix for this for 15 years believe it or not.

As someone mentioned keep oil fresh is best you can do. Or change seal leak in the rear btu I heard this doesnt do much.

Answer 3

check to make sure its not red tranny fluid from the power steering this is common on commies,also check to see if the oil filter is tight,check the rocker cover gaskets and the covers them selvs as the covers are only fibre glass,these seem to leak after a while also a common prob.Could be a blockage in the pcv valve causing it to spring leaks where ever theres a weak spot,common problem...the list goes on...Check those things first but most the time it comes back to the pcv not working properly causin the preassure to build up and cause leaks everywhere.to check it you will have to go and buy a gasket for the intake plenum to replace after you check/renew the pcv...About 15 bucks.....Take the engine cover off,undo the allan bolts on top then undo the bolts inside that hold the plenum on.Under there is the pcv.Be carefull not to loose the spring for it...