Identifying The Signs Of Oil Leaking From Your Cylinder Head

Oil leaks can spell trouble for your car, especially if they’re coming from the cylinder head. Recognizing the signs early can save you from costly repairs and keep your engine running smoothly.

The cylinder head plays a vital role in the engine’s overall function, housing key components like valves, spark plugs, and the camshaft. When it fails, it can compromise the entire engine system. This is why Subaru owners must be vigilant and proactive in identifying and addressing oil leaks.

In the following sections, we will dive deep into the mechanics of the cylinder head and how to spot signs of oil leaks.

What Is the Cylinder Head And Why Is It Important?

Before diving into the signs of an oil leak, it’s crucial to understand the role of the cylinder head in your vehicle. The cylinder head sits atop the engine block, sealing the cylinders and housing components like valves, spark plugs, and the camshaft.

It plays a critical role in the combustion process, ensuring your engine runs efficiently.

The Function Of The Cylinder Head

The cylinder head’s primary function is to control the intake of air and fuel and the exhaust of gases. It also helps cool the engine by circulating coolant through its passages. If the cylinder head fails, it can lead to severe engine damage, making early detection of oil leaks vital.

The Impact Of An Oil Leak

Oil leaking from the cylinder head is typically caused when you have a cracked cylinder head on your Subaru EJ253 engine, causing the engine to run low on oil and prematurely fail.

Additionally, oil leaks can result in reduced lubrication, leading to increased friction and wear on engine components.

Common Signs Of Oil Leaking From The Cylinder Head

Spotting oil leaks early can prevent significant engine damage. Here are some common signs to watch for:

Oil Spots Under Your Vehicle

One of the most obvious signs of an oil leak is finding oil spots or puddles under your vehicle. If you notice this, inspect your engine to determine if the leak is coming from the cylinder head.

Smoke From The Exhaust Area

Oil leaking from a cracked cylinder head oil pressure sender port will typically drip down the side of the cylinder head onto the exhaust manifold and then cause smoke and noxious fumes.

Overheating Engine

Oil leaks can cause the engine to overheat by reducing the effectiveness of the cooling system. If your engine frequently overheats, it could be due to oil leaking from the cylinder head.

Low Oil Levels

Regularly checking your oil levels can help you spot leaks early. If you notice that your oil levels are consistently low, it might be due to a leak from the cylinder head.

Diagnosing The Cause Of The Leak

Identifying the signs of an oil leak is just the first step. Next, you need to diagnose the underlying cause. Here are some common reasons why oil might be leaking from your cylinder head: Worn Cylinder Head Gasket

The cylinder head gasket seals the cylinder head to the engine block. Over time, it can wear out or get damaged, leading to oil leaks. A blown gasket is a common culprit behind oil leaks from the cylinder head.

Cracked Cylinder Head

A cracked cylinder head can allow oil to seep out. Cracks can result from overheating or manufacturing defects. If you suspect a crack, it is time to replace the sender and install our Oil Pressure Sender Repair Kit.

Faulty Valve Cover Gasket

The valve cover gasket sits on top of the cylinder head and prevents oil from leaking out. If this gasket is damaged or worn, it can cause oil to leak from the cylinder head.

Role Of Oil Pressure Kit And Oil Pans To Address Oil Leaks

One of the most effective ways to manage oil leaks is by using a Specialised Parts Oil Pressure Sender Repair Kit. Our oil pressure kits are designed to provide accurate readings and help identify leaks early. By monitoring your oil pressure, you can detect issues before they become serious problems.

Moreover, oil pans are crucial in collecting and storing engine oil. Choose the right oil pan for your Subaru. Our oil pans are designed to work on modified vehicles that use the Subaru EJ series engine.

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At Specialised Parts, we manufacture top-quality Subaru and VW conversion auto parts. Our expert team is dedicated to helping you find the right parts for your vehicle. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.