Checking for oil leaks by visual inspection (VW Transporter T4)

If the engine is contaminated with oil and has a high oil consumption, check for oil leaks by inspecting the following possible locations:

• oil filler cap thread seal (unscrew the cap and check the seal for porosity or damage);
• cylinder head cover gasket;
• cylinder head gasket;
• flange connection of the ignition distributor to the engine;
• oil filter seal: oil filter on oil filter flange;
• oil drain plug (compaction);
• oil pan seal;
• the junction of the engine and gearbox (seal on flywheel or drive shaft).

Since when depressurizing, the oil mostly spreads widely over the engine surface, it is difficult to determine the leak location at first glance. It is advisable to search as follows:

1. Wash the engine. Spray the engine with a cold cleaning agent, wait for a while until it shows its properties and then wash with water, having covered the ignition distributor and generator with polyethylene bags.

2. Sprinkle the mating and gasket areas on the engine with lime or talc.

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3. Check the oil level and top up if necessary.

4. Make a test drive. Since hot engine oil becomes more liquid and flows out of damaged areas faster, make a run of about 30 km.

5. Then inspect the engine with a lamp, find the leak and fix it.