How to Replace an Oil Pan Gasket?

Replacing an oil pan gasket can be a relatively messy affair. If you’re uncertain, you should visit an auto repair shop for the job. Also, before replacing the gasket, you need to confirm if the leak is indeed from the gasket. 

That said, let’s go through the general know-how of the replacement process. 

A. Detecting Oil Pan Gasket Leak

Here’s how an ASE-certified mechanic will confirm the leak: 

1. Lift your vehicle using a floor jack.
2. Clean the dirt and oil residue around the oil pan.
3. Inspect the area around the oil pan and the engine block for signs of oil leaks. If engine oil residue, wetness, or dripping around the pan’s edges is present, a gasket replacement is needed. They may also use a UV light to identify other leak sources and recommend repair.

B. Replacing the Oil Pan Gasket 

Once a pan leak is confirmed, the mechanic will proceed with the replacement process: 

1. Place a drain pan under the vehicle, undo the oil filter and oil drain plug, and let the old oil drain out completely. To access the pan, they may have to remove the front subframe.
2. Gently remove the oil pan bolt, ensuring they don’t damage the oil pick-up located inside the oil pan.
3. Remove the motor mount (engine mount), oil pan, and old gasket.
4. Wipe clean the lower engine block, the oil pan, and the motor mount, and let it dry for a few minutes.
5. Once completely dry, apply a thin film of RTV (silicone rubber) to the mounting surface.
6. Position the replacement oil sump gasket against the mounting surface and apply pressure.
7. Take a few strands of a 3-4 inch long wire, peel off the insulation, and twist them loosely around the new gasket to keep it from moving.
8. Next, install the pan bolt and untwist the wire strands.
9. Refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and torque the oil pan bolt accordingly.

   Note: Some engines require torquing the oil pan bolt identically, while others may require torquing the rear oil pan bolt differently from the front bolt.

10. Reinstall the oil filter, oil drain plug (and other parts), and refill the crankcase with new motor oil.
11. Lower the vehicle, start the engine, and let it run for a few minutes, ensuring no signs of an oil leak.

How Much Does an Oil Pan Gasket Replacement Cost?

The estimated cost for an oil pan gasket replacement is between $450 and $600. This includes the parts, which range from $300 to $400, and the labor charges, which range from $120 to $140. 

The labor and parts cost can increase depending on your vehicle model or manufacturer (whether you drive a Toyota, Honda, or BMW) and your location.

In addition to fixing an oil pan gasket leak, you may also need a related auto repair, like changing the drain plug or old oil, which could increase the cost.

What Causes Leaks from the Engine Oil Pan Gasket?

Here’s why an oil pan or sump gasket usually leaks: 

• Age and wear
• Improper installation of the oil sump gasket
• Over-tightening or under-tightening the sump bolt
• Excessive engine vibrations and heat
• Excessive internal engine pressure 
• High mileage

5 Symptoms of a Leaky Oil Pan Gasket

Here are some signs of a pan leak you need to watch out for: 

• Oil stains under your vehicle
• Burning oil smell
• Oil coating on the vehicle’s undercarriage
• Engine overheating
• Rapid oil loss indicated by low oil level on the dipstick
• Active oil level or oil pressure light

How Critical Is a Leaky Oil Pan Gasket?

Driving with a faulty oil pan gasket leaking oil can quickly escalate from wearing out your camshaft or crankshaft bearings to complete engine damage.

So, if you notice a low oil level or any of the other symptoms of oil leaks, visit your dealership or car repair shop as soon as possible to get a new gasket and engine service.

3 Oil Pan Gasket Replacement FAQs

Here are answers to some oil pan gasket-related queries:

1. What Is an Oil Pan Gasket? 

The oil pan gasket or sump gasket is critical to the engine’s lubrication system. It’s a seal that sits between the oil pan and the engine block at the bottom of the crankcase. 

The gasket prevents an oil leak as the oil sump pushes lubricant to the rest of the engine’s parts. So, if you notice leaking oil, you may have a faulty engine oil pan gasket. 

2. Does Replacing an Oil Pan Gasket Also Require an Oil Change?

It’s generally recommended to get an oil change when you go for a gasket replacement. 

Here’s why:

You need to drain the entire engine oil from the oil sump before performing a gasket replacement. Auto mechanics usually use dirty containers to drain the oil. So, putting used and dirty oil back into the engine isn’t advisable. 

However, if you recently had a motor oil and filter change, you can ask the mechanic to drain the oil using a clean container. Then, reusing it shouldn’t be a problem. 

3. Can I Use Only the Gasket Sealer Instead of a New Gasket? 

While you can technically use only the gasket sealer or gasket maker (like RTV) to fix a leaking oil pan, this DIY isn’t recommended. 

Here are a few reasons why: 

• Sealant quality: Gasket makers aren’t as reliable for an oil pan leak or head gasket repair as dedicated gaskets. They might not withstand the pressure and temperature variations experienced in the engine over time.
• Durability: Gasket sealant tends to degrade faster than purpose-built gaskets, which could lead to oil leakage sooner rather than later.

Ideally, it’s best to use both to get a perfect seal around the sump pan.