QuestionI have a 2000 Nissam Altima that is leaking oil in the engine compartment passenger side front. It seems to be comming out under pressure since it is spraying onto the undrside of the hood and radiator hose. what can be the causes and is it and easy fix or do I need to bring it to a shop?
AnswerHi Roger -
Oil pressure is not that high (possible 30 PSI max). What is probably happening is the oil is dripping on your drive belt or one of the pulleys and being thrown on the underside of the hood.
That being said, try checking the valve cover for seepage of oil. Sometimes a quick tightening of all bolts will do the trick. Get some brake cleaner and spray the area clean, tighten the bolts, and see if it gets saturated with oil again. If so, then replace the valve cover.
If that is OK, check the oil pressure sending unit. This should be located on the side of the engine, normally near the oil filter. It will only leak when the engine is running.
Lastly, if all above checks out, you might have a leaking camshaft seal, or leaking oil pump shaft seal. This requires removal of the timing belt.
I do not know your expertise as far as car repair, but normally I would recommend the latter taken to a repair shop. The first 2 can be done with relative ease.
Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin
