So, my car's been leaking oil slightly ever since I changed it. The mechanic said it's seeping a bit from the plug on the oilpan, but mainly it's the sump seal that needs changing.

Thing is though, it's cheaper to keep adding Havoline Extra 10-W40 than it is to change the seal, which necessitates the engine to be lifted slightly out of the bay. I might have to do it either way, and change the cambelt and clutch at the same time, but that's gonna cost me.

So today I added a bottle of STP's leak stopper fluid. The bottle specifically said it worked for sump seal leaks, and that it would be properly effective within a thousand miles.

Let's see if it helps.

> specifically said it worked for sump seal leaks

I'm always concerned that these 'mechanic in a bottle' leak stoppers are plugging holes that are required to be clear ... like the turbo bearing, hydraulic lifter or rocker lever feeds.
Adding 'miracle goo' to an engine, specifically lube oil ... I don't think so, rather let it leak.

Well, if it helps any, the car's a piece of crap. Unfortunately it's a Honda, so it will shake, rattle and roll, but not break down decisively.

Be careful... some leak stoppers say not to use them if there is any rust in any of the plumbing. Apparently it reacts and will eat through stuff.

Ahhh well then, that's a different matter entirely. Those small little bits have either not seen proper oil in years or they're worn to the point that oil pours through them. I've got a truck like that - I buy oil from Costco, by the case and keep several bottles tucked away in the engine compartment :)

Mechanic in a bottle is probably just the thing, it could just end up tightening up all sorts of woes.

Here's hoping...

I had a '68 volvo (280K miles) that leaked oil quite readily. This was back in the early 80's. My friends would give me milk jugs of their used motor oil and I would wait for the oil light to come on, pull over and pour in a couple quarts every few days. Did this for a year until I sold the beauty.

What fond memories.

Ah, the beauty of old Volvos... ;)

Mine was a '77 245 with the round headlamps.

It's good to see all you guys are true green environmentalists at heart.

> my car's been leaking oil

Don't worry, you can rely on us to buy you a new one. It's tradition.

I like the used motor oil solution!
Burning oil's not that terrible for the enironment, at least compared w/burining gasoline. Repleacing the seal would be a bit more environmentally friendly. Replacing the car would be far less environmentally friendly.