Dealing With a Crank Seal Oil Leak in Your Mini Cooper

There are so many important seals that make your Mini Cooper work perfectly and one of them is the crank seal. This small car component is usually made from a special type of plastic or rubber material. It is designed to fit and seal up the edges of the crankshaft where it exits the engine block. Whenever you take a ride in your lovely compact car, this crank seal acts as the barrier to keep the engine oil in your Mini where it belongs.

So you may ask, what is this crankshaft and how does it work? Think of the crankshaft in your Mini Cooper like the main arm in a rowing boat. If a rower wants to propel a boat to move forward, they use the oars to push against the water. In the same way, your engine uses the crankshaft to turn the up-and-down movement of the pistons into a circular motion so that the wheels can rotate. Since this crankshaft is always put to work, engine oil flows through it to keep it cool and lubricated. The crank seal is what prevents oil from leaking out of the engine as the crankshaft rotates.

What Causes an Oil Leak In The Crank Seal?

First, as your Mini gets older, the rubber seal can get hard and crack, just like an old rubber band. Sometimes, if the engine becomes very hot or cold as a result of the environment or engine performance, it can damage the seal. Also, dirt and tiny bits of debris can sneak in and hurt the seal, making it leak. Finally, if there is a little wobble or wear in the crankshaft, it can make the tight grip of the seal loosen and oil will start leaking out.

How To Deal With A Leaking Crank Seal

• Identify the Leak: The first thing to do when you want to resolve the issue of a leak from the crankshaft seal is to first be sure that there is actually an oil leak. You can identify a leak by looking out for oil spots under your car or any visible oil around the engine area.
• Diagnose the Problem: After you have checked and are sure that there is a leak, the next thing to do is to try to locate the particular part of your Mini engine where the leak is coming from. This step usually requires the trained eyes of a professional mechanic. They can accurately determine if the source of the leak is actually the crank seal or any other seal in your Mini.
• Choose Quality Parts for Replacement: If you need to replace the crank seal, you have to go for high-quality or OEM parts. By making use of parts that meet your Mini Cooper’s specifications, you can be sure that there will be a proper fit and the new seal will last for a very long time, reducing the chances of an early leak in the future.
• Preventive Maintenance: After the repair, you need to make sure that you constantly maintain your Mini to reduce the possibility of future leaks. One way you can make the new crank seal last longer is by changing the oil with the correct type of oil and at the right time.
• Seek Professional Help: As earlier mentioned, the replacement of a crank seal is a very complex task and it involves removing so many engine components to access the seal. It is advisable to have this repair done by a professional mechanic who has experience in Mini Cooper engines to ensure the job is done properly the first time.

Trust the Experts at Integrity Motorcar to Enhance Your Mini’s Performance

If you are facing a leaking crank seal in your Mini and you want a professional to help you fix the problem, you can come to us at Integrity Motorcar. We are here to help all Mini drivers from places such as Anaheim Hills, Brea, Fullerton, Tustin, Yorba Linda, CA, and surrounding areas to rejuvenate their Mini’s performance.

Our skilled professionals excel in pinpointing and fixing crank seal oil leaks, ensuring your Mini runs as smoothly as the day you first drove it. We’re committed to maintaining your Mini’s high performance, utilizing only the finest quality parts for repairs and replacements. Let us restore the excitement of driving your Mini, free from the concerns of oil leaks. Ready for a worry-free ride? Schedule your visit with us now!