Nissan Repair: Re: Nissan X trail Losing oil, nissan x trail, oil pressure sending unit

Question
HI I have a 03 nissan x trail sport 2lt petrol.  It was noisy on start up similar to a diesel sound, got it checked and told there was no oil but it was only serviced 2 months beforehand.  Topped up the oil and no more problems for about 6 weeks and the same thing again.  Went back to garage who said that there mus be a  a crack in the engine and the engine will have to be stripped! There is visable oil on top of the oil tank?! so I am wondering if it could possibly be a faulty seal on the cap? There is no sign of oil leaking underneath the car and once topped up the problem disappears for about 6 weeks.  Also the oil light on the dash does not come on even when the tank is empty.  Would reaaly appreciate your help, thanks

Answer
Hi Claire -

Before it was serviced, did you have the problem? If not, then I would look for the obvious, loose oil filter, loose drain plug nut. Do you see smoke coming out of your exhaust when going up hills, or passing another car?

Also check the oil pressure sending unit. This should be mounted on the engine, usually near the oil filter or back of the engine. Remove the wire terminal attached to it, and if it is wet with oil, replace it.

Another thinig you can check is the head gasket, it couold be leaking oil into your cooling system, although it is quite a bit. Run the engine for about 5 minutes. Remove the dipstick and allow some oil to drip on the hot exhaust manifold. If it sizzles, then you have water in your oil. If it just smokes, then you are fine.

Hope this helps -
aloha
calvin