Why Is There Oil Under My Car?

September 1, 2025

(What That Puddle Means and How to Fix It)

So you pull out of your driveway and there it is—a dark puddle under your car. It smells a little burnt, feels slick, and definitely wasn’t there yesterday. The most likely culprit? An oil leak.

At Wayside Garage, we see this every week. And while oil leaks can look scary, the fix is often faster and more affordable than most people think.

🔍 What Causes Oil to Leak?

Here are the most common sources of oil leaks we find during inspections:

■ Worn valve cover gaskets – These seals degrade over time, especially in older vehicles.

■ Oil pan gasket leak – A common culprit after high mileage or if the oil pan has been dented.

■ Loose or damaged drain plug – This can happen after an oil change if not properly torqued.

■ Cracked oil filter housing – Especially common in certain makes/models with plastic housings.

■ Rear main seal leak – This one’s trickier and more involved, but we’ll only recommend repair if absolutely necessary.

🧰 How Do You Fix It?

✅ 1. Clean & Inspect the Engine

We start by cleaning the leak area (if needed) and identifying the exact source. No guesswork — just smart diagnostics.

✅ 2. Pressure or Dye Testing

If the leak is small, we may use a dye tracer and blacklight or a pressure test to pinpoint the cause.

✅ 3. Transparent Quote & Repair Options

We’ll show you photos and explain your repair options clearly — with no pressure and no surprises.

🚨 Why You Shouldn’t Ignore an Oil Leak

Even small leaks can lead to:

■ Low oil levels, which starve your engine of lubrication

■ Burning smells from oil dripping on hot components

■ Damage to sensors or belts

■ Costly engine repairs if the oil runs too low

🛠️ Maintenance Tip from Wayside Garage

Oil leaks often start small, especially around 75,000+ miles. Regular oil change intervals and annual inspections help us spot worn seals early — before they turn into driveway stains or major engine damage.

All of this is included in your Wayside Maintenance Plan, so you don’t have to worry.

📅 Let’s Find the Leak Before It Grows

If you see a puddle under your car or smell burning oil, let our certified techs track it down and give you honest, affordable options for repair.

➡️ Schedule an Oil Leak Check or Call (831)-899-2425

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ARE MY BRAKES SAFE?

By Stacey Diaz • October 14, 2025

October is more than just pumpkin patches and crisp fall air. For many families in Monterey, it's also the start of darker evenings, wetter roads, and more time on the road. That’s why October is the perfect time to think about one of the most important safety features on your vehicle: your brakes. At Wayside Garage, we participate in the Brakes for Breasts campaign every October. It's not just about brake repair — it’s about raising awareness, supporting breast cancer research, and keeping our community safe on the roads. ________________________________________ What Are the Signs Your Brakes Might Need Attention? Your brakes are your first line of defense in an emergency. If you’re noticing any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked: • Squealing or grinding noises • A soft or “spongy” brake pedal • Car pulling to one side when braking • Vibration or shaking when you press the brakes • Increased stopping distance Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive repairs down the road — or worse, a serious accident. We always say: if it feels off, bring it in. ________________________________________ Why Brake Inspections Matter More in Fall With more rain, shorter days, and holiday travel ahead, your brakes are under more stress in the fall. At Wayside Garage, we see an uptick in emergency brake repairs this time of year — many of which could have been avoided with a quick inspection. Our certified technicians will perform a comprehensive brake check, looking at: • Brake pads and rotors • Brake fluid level and condition • Brake lines and hoses • Calipers and hardware And if you’re part of our Wayside Garage Maintenance Plan, your brake inspections are included with your scheduled services. That’s one more reason to stay on track with routine care. ________________________________________ Brakes for Breasts: Repair With a Purpose Every October, we join auto shops nationwide for the Brakes for Breasts campaign. Here’s how it works at Wayside Garage: • You get free brake pads (you only pay for labor and any additional parts if needed). • We donate 10% of the brake job to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. It’s a meaningful way to protect your family on the road while supporting groundbreaking research that could change lives. ________________________________________ Why Choose Wayside Garage for Brake Service? We know you have options when it comes to brake repair in Monterey. So why do so many drivers trust us? • Family-owned and operated since 1946 • ASE-certified technicians who care about doing it right • Honest inspections and clear explanations • Free digital vehicle health reports • A shop built on integrity, hospitality, and professionalism When you bring your vehicle to us, you're not just another ticket — you're part of the Wayside Garage family. ________________________________________ Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today October is the best time to have your brakes checked — and support a great cause while you're at it. Whether you’re noticing a problem or just want peace of mind before the holidays, give us a call or schedule an appointment online. Let's keep your vehicle — and your community — safe this fall.