Engine Leak Inspection & Repair Cost Guide
Oil Pan Gasket Leak
Labor time: 2-4 hours
Typical cost: $250-500 labor plus $20-40 for gasket
Total estimated cost: $270-540
Valve Cover Gasket Leak
Labor time: 1-2 hours
Typical cost: $125-250 labor plus $30-60 for gasket
Total estimated cost: $155-310
Main Seal Leak
Labor time: 4-8 hours
Typical cost: $500-1,000 labor plus $30-50 for seal
Total estimated cost: $530-1,050
Timing Cover Leak
Labor time: 4-6 hours
Typical cost: $500-750 labor plus $40-80 for gasket
Total estimated cost: $540-830
Head Gasket Leak
Labor time: 6-12 hours
Typical cost: $750-1,500 labor plus $100-200 for gasket kit
Total estimated cost: $850-1,700
*Note: Prices are estimates based on our standard rate of $125/hour. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make/model and extent of repair needed. Additional parts may be required in some cases.
Diagnostic Fee
Initial leak inspection and diagnosis: $125
(This fee can be applied toward repair cost if work is performed at our shop)
Common Engine Leak Inspection & Repair Procedures
Oil Leak Repair
Typical Steps:
- Visual inspection to identify the exact source of the leak
- Clean affected area thoroughly to remove oil residue
- Pressure test the engine to confirm leak location
- Replace faulty components (common items include):
- Valve cover gasket
- Oil pan gasket
- Front/rear main seals
- Timing cover gasket
- Clean surfaces and apply new gaskets/seals
- Refill with fresh oil
- Test run engine to verify repair
Coolant Leak Repair
Typical Steps:
- Pressure test cooling system to locate leak
- Drain coolant system
- Replace faulty components (common items include):
- Radiator
- Hoses
- Water pump
- Head gasket
- Thermostat housing
- Install new components with fresh gaskets/seals
- Refill with proper coolant mixture
- Bleed air from system
- Test run engine to verify repair
Fuel Leak Repair
Typical Steps:
- Depressurize fuel system
- Visual inspection with fuel system pressurized
- Replace faulty components (common items include):
- Fuel lines
- Fuel injector O-rings
- Fuel pressure regulator
- Fuel rail gaskets
- Install new components
- Pressurize system
- Verify no leaks present
- Test run engine to confirm repair
Vacuum Leak Repair
Typical Steps:
- Smoke test or use vacuum gauge to locate leak
- Visual inspection of vacuum lines and connections
- Replace damaged components (common items include):
- Vacuum hoses
- Intake manifold gaskets
- PCV valve
- Vacuum switches
- Install new components
- Perform smoke test to verify repair
- Test drive to confirm proper engine operation
Note:These are general repair procedures. Specific steps may vary depending on vehicle make, model, and engine type. Always consult manufacturer specifications for detailed repair instructions.
Understanding Engine Leak Inspections
Oil Leak Inspection
An oil leak inspection involves a thorough examination of your engine and its components to identify any spots where oil might be escaping. Our technicians check the oil pan gasket, valve cover gaskets, timing cover, and all oil seals. Oil leaks can lead to low oil levels, engine damage, and environmental hazards if left untreated.
Coolant Leak Inspection
During a coolant leak inspection, we examine your vehicle's entire cooling system, including the radiator, hoses, water pump, and gaskets. Coolant leaks can cause engine overheating and severe engine damage. We use pressure testing and UV dye methods to detect even the smallest coolant leaks that might not be visible to the naked eye.
Transmission Fluid Leak Inspection
This inspection focuses on identifying any transmission fluid leaks from transmission seals, gaskets, and lines. Our technicians check the transmission pan, input/output shaft seals, and transmission cooler lines. Transmission fluid leaks can lead to gear shifting problems and eventual transmission failure if not addressed promptly.
Power Steering Fluid Leak Inspection
We examine the entire power steering system, including the pump, hoses, and rack and pinion assembly. Power steering fluid leaks can cause difficulty in steering and eventual power steering system failure. Our inspection ensures all components are properly sealed and functioning correctly.
Brake Fluid Leak Inspection
A brake fluid leak inspection involves checking the entire brake system, including master cylinder, brake lines, calipers, and wheel cylinders. Brake fluid leaks are particularly dangerous as they can lead to brake failure. We perform a comprehensive safety check to ensure your brake system is operating safely.
Fuel Leak Inspection
During a fuel leak inspection, we examine fuel lines, fuel injectors, fuel pump, and all related connections. Fuel leaks are serious safety hazards that require immediate attention. Our technicians use specialized equipment to detect any fuel system leaks and ensure your vehicle's safety.
Vacuum Leak Inspection
This inspection focuses on finding leaks in the engine's vacuum system, which affects engine performance and efficiency. We check all vacuum hoses, intake manifold gaskets, and other components that rely on vacuum pressure. Vacuum leaks can cause rough idling, poor fuel economy, and decreased engine performance.
Exhaust Leak Inspection
An exhaust leak inspection involves checking the entire exhaust system from the manifold to the tailpipe. We look for cracks, holes, and loose connections that could allow harmful exhaust gases to enter the vehicle cabin. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous due to carbon monoxide exposure and also affect engine performance.
All our leak inspections are performed by certified technicians using state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to ensure accurate detection and proper repair recommendations.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Engine Oil Leaks
Common Engine Leak Inspections
Oil Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Dark brown or black spots under your parked vehicle
- Burning oil smell, especially after parking
- Oil level dropping faster than normal
- Visible oil on engine components
Service Schedule: Inspect for oil leaks every 3,000-5,000 miles or during each oil change
Coolant Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Sweet, syrupy smell from engine bay
- Green, orange, or pink fluid puddles under vehicle
- Frequent low coolant warnings
- Engine overheating
Service Schedule: Check coolant levels and inspect for leaks every 15,000 miles or annually
Power Steering Fluid Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Whining noise when turning steering wheel
- Red or brown fluid spots under front of vehicle
- Stiff or difficult steering
- Low power steering fluid level
Service Schedule: Inspect power steering system every 15,000-30,000 miles
Transmission Fluid Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Red or brown fluid spots under the middle of vehicle
- Delayed or rough gear shifting
- Burning smell while driving
- Low transmission fluid level
Service Schedule: Check transmission fluid level and condition every 30,000-60,000 miles
Brake Fluid Leaks
Signs of Failure:
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
- Clear to brown fluid near wheels
- Warning light on dashboard
- Reduced braking performance
Service Schedule: Inspect brake system every 12,000 miles or annually
Note: These service intervals are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance schedules, as they may vary by make and model.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
