I’ve got a 2011 model and noticed an oil leak a few months back. Took it to a mechanic, and he said the oil seals are old and that’s causing the leak. But because of how Ford designs their cars, he explained fixing it would mean dropping the transmission, which might lead to even more problems. His advice was to leave it alone and just check the oil levels regularly. My dad thinks I should get a second opinion from a Ford dealership since they might have more experience with this stuff. Has anyone here been through something similar? How did it turn out for you? This car means a lot to me, and I’d love for it to last as long as my family’s old 1998 Windstar, which was still running in 2020.
I had a similar issue with my 2011. They quoted me more than the car’s value to fix the oil leak. Mine’s at 246,000 miles now and drips everywhere I park. I just power wash the underside occasionally, but fixing it wasn’t worth it for me.
@Leith
Sounds like you’ve got a built-in anti-rust system! Keeps the engine and suspension nice and oiled up.
@Leith
Yeah, I figured fixing it would cost way too much to be worth it.
It’s a common problem. Usually, it’s the oil pan, timing cover, or valve cover gaskets.
Probably not worth fixing. Just top off the oil when needed or think about trading it in.
My 2012 has the same issue with a timing cover gasket leak. My mechanic quoted me a lot because of the work involved to get to it. I just check and fill the oil periodically. It’s manageable for now since I don’t lose much oil.
@Vale
How many miles are on your car? Mine isn’t leaking too badly, but I’m worried it might get worse over time.
Drew said:
@Vale
How many miles are on your car? Mine isn’t leaking too badly, but I’m worried it might get worse over time.
I’m at 216,000 km. My leak’s been steady for about three years. I’d say keep an eye on it. If it starts costing too much in oil, then look into repairs. My estimate was $1000 CAD, and that buys a lot of oil!
Drew said:
@Vale
How many miles are on your car? Mine isn’t leaking too badly, but I’m worried it might get worse over time.
I use high-mileage motor oil. It has additives that can help old gaskets swell up and slow down leaks. If you’re not into DIY, places like Walmart offer high-mileage oil changes too.
I’ve got the same issue with my 2011 Escape. Took it to a Ford dealer, and they said it’s really common for these cars. They told me not to worry unless it starts leaving big puddles. Right now, it’s just a minor drip, and I’m at 130,000 miles.
Do certain engines in this generation have more problems with oil leaks than others?
Try spraying some solvent around the seal. It might help it expand and stop the leak for a bit.
I’ve heard the same thing. Mine’s leaking a little, but my mechanic’s done a lot of good work on my car. I don’t trust the dealer with stuff like this, though.
The Ford 3.0 Duratec engine is known for leaks. If yours isn’t leaking, you’re lucky! If it’s the rear main seal, then yeah, the transmission has to come out. But front seals or valve cover gaskets are easier to handle. You could try high-mileage oil to slow the leak. These engines last a long time if you keep the oil levels up.
Not worth fixing an old Ford. Just let it drip.
I use AT-205 in all my older cars. If it’s something simple like a valve cover or an oil pressure sensor, I’ll fix it. But for big jobs, I leave it unless the engine or transmission is already out.