How safe is it to drive for a while with an oil leak from your valve cover?

Question

its not a bad leak and my oil level seems to be ok. is this hard to fix and does it need immediate attention? its a 97 honda accord

Answer 1

May need a new valve gasket; keep the oil level full to the correct mark and keep watching it.

Answer 2

If its a small leak you can get by for a SHORT while if you keep track of your oil level, and be sure to add some as it gets lower.

But I don't suggest it, especially since the fix is so simple.

I suggest you replace the gasket asap to stop the leak. Its really cheap as far as repairs go. The gasket is the rubber lining between the valve cover and the rest of the block. Its as simple as taking off the valve cover and removing the old gasket and replacing it with the new one. Although I do recommend you use a sealer ( type of glue) to help with preventing new leaks.

Good luck!

Answer 3

One thing to consider. A valve cover leak will allow oil to accumulate on the surfaces of your engine which will catch any dirt/dust that's flying around. The longer it sits, the more grungy it becomes. A grungy engine obscures the identification of other problems b/c the mechanic can't tell the old leak from something new. If the new leak is higher up, for example, when it blends with the existing one the two are indistinguishable.

Yes, drive with it as long as you check the oil level once a week.

Answer 4

If it only a minor leak just keep a close eye on the oil level. It's not a major repair, if you're mechanical you can do it in a couple hours, if not a good shop will replace the gasket for around 120 dollars.

I wouldn't wait too long even if keeping oil in the engine isn't a problem, The accumulated sludge which occurs do to dust and dirt sticking to the oil can cause problems down line.

Answer 5

Minor leak not leaking onto exhaust - OK

Excessive leak or leaking onto the exhaust manifold, you should have it repaired. Oil leaking onto the hot exhaust manifold could catch fire.

A minor leak makes more of a mess than anything. As long as it doesn't leak onto the exhaust, it is not much of a problem. Oil will stain your driveway or garage. Makes a mess under the hood.

The gasket itself is usually relatively inexpensive. It varies by make on how much it is going to cost you to have it replaced. Some valve covers are relatively easy to remove while others may require several other components be removed before the valve cover can be removed.

Answer 6

It depends on the severity of the leak. A large leak should be fixed immediately, smaller leaks could possibly wait a little while.

Keep in mind, though. Oil leaks can lead to oil FIRES....which most certainly would ruin your whole day.

Answer 7

If the leak isn't too serious, then it's OK. Just make sure you check your oil often and top off as necessary. Changing the valve cover isn't too hard. You basically just have to remove the old one, scrape off the gasket material, put on a new gasket (RTV) and match up the mating surfaces.

Answer 8

If it's not dripping - it's OK providing you check oil level from time to time. As a matter of fact, most vehicles on the road have some leaks here and there. It's not pretty but for most brands inevitable.

Answer 9

Since you stated the leak is not large, then you are OK. I would get it fixed some time fairly soon. Be sure to check the oil level and keep it filled.

The repair is not bad, and won't take too long to replace the gasket.

good luck

Answer 10

won't hurt it as long as you keep watch of the oil level, try tightening the bolts down some on the valve cover.