Mitsubishi Repair: ol pan leaks, mitsubishi mirage, pipe dope

Question
I have a 1998 Mitsubishi Mirage 1.5L engine.  The oil was leaking from the drain plug.  I replaced the plug and washer and it still leaks.  Do you think I need a new oil pan?  Thanks

Answer
Tom,
A leak like this can be caused by a deform in the area on the pan around the drain plug or even worn inner threads of the oil pan.  This can be cause by cross threading or excessive stress from the drain plug being removed and screwed back in over time.  A new oil pan can be pricey.  You may have luck with a simple, cheap fix remedy of using Teflon tape on the drain plug.  That can help make a better seal between the threads of the plug and the pan.  You could also consider using pipe dope instead of the tape.  But in either case, be very careful not to get any material into the oil pan.
Good luck!