Ask an expert

My car is leaking oil and the mechanic has said that it looks like it is coming from the camshaft seals.

I had my cam belt replaced in 2007 at 116,000km and am unsure if the cam shaft seals were done at the same time.

The car has now done 156,000km. Anyway, I was just wanting to know is it possible to just replace the cam seals or would it be better to replace the cam belt again. The mechanic did say this was an option but that he could not guarantee the job if the cam belt was reused.

I have asked the garage that did the cam belt replacement for a description of what was done as I have been told the oil leak may be covered under their warranty.

Is that right?

Helen

From the "Ask Jack" archives - 7 December 2009

Firstly your mechanic needs to confirm the source of the leak. Often oil leaks in this area are caused by the camshaft cover gasket and not the camshaft seals.

A thorough clean and examination of the area needs to be carried out.

Obviously if you can avoid having the camshaft seals replaced it is the better option and removes any discussions around the cam belt.

Let's assume however, it is the cam seals that are the cause of the leak for a moment. It is highly likely there will be oil on the belt (leaking past the seals and onto the belt). If so, it's a no brainer, the belt will need to be changed.

If the belt is dry the decision becomes a little more difficult. I support your mechanic when he says he cannot offer any guarantees if the old belt is refitted. It is almost halfway through its life cycle and the risk of expensive engine damage if the belt was to fail is too high for the mechanic to take.

The cost of a new belt is very low in comparison to the potential costs you may face if it were to break. I would recommend another new belt was fitted especially if you plan to keep the car.

Most garages offer guarantees against poor workmanship or parts failure for 6 months or 5,000kms whichever comes first but that is a general statement. There are others who offer less and some more.

If the seals were replaced last time one possible solution is to take the car back to the original repairer and ask them to consider doing the job again at a discounted price as a gesture of goodwill.