What are engine camshaft seals?
The camshaft is an essential component in an internal combustion engine. It is responsible for opening and closing the engine’s valves, which control the flow of air and fuel into the combustion chamber.
Camshaft seals are used to seal the end of the engine’s camshaft between the top of the cylinder head and the valve cover gasket. This prevents oil from leaking out of the engine while it is running.
How does the camshaft work?
Camshaft seals are usually made from heavy-duty rubber that is designed to last a long time. However, these seals are subject to extremely high engine temperatures and this can cause them to wear out over time. A worn seal will not be able to correctly hold oil, leading to oil leaking.
An oil leak caused by a damaged engine camshaft seal will not immediately affect the driveability of your car. However, it can greatly increase the amount of friction in your engine. This will lead to engine parts wearing and overheating, resulting in a very expensive repair. For this reason, you should get oil leaks repaired as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a damaged camshaft seal:
Visible oil leaks – A damaged engine camshaft seal will result in oil leaking from your engine. This oil can either accumulate in a puddle underneath your car or around the sides and corners of your engine.
Smoke coming from the engine – When oil leaks from the camshaft seals, it can sometimes come in contact with the exhaust manifold or piping. Since these parts reach such high temperatures, the oil will burn, producing smoke and a strong smell.
Oil warning light – Most modern cars have oil warning lights which will turn on your engine’s oil levels or pressures are low. If this light turns on, try to avoid driving long distances in order to prevent further damage to your engine.
Oil warning light diagnostics in Hamilton >
Engine misfires – If oil leaks onto the spark plugs, it can cause the engine to misfire, leading to a decrease in power and acceleration.
Engine noises – A damaged camshaft seal can cause oil to enter the engine’s timing belt or chain, leading to unusual noises from the engine.
Why is fixing an oil leak important?
Engine oil is crucial for the smooth functioning of a vehicle. Leaks can lead to decreased oil levels and reduced engine performance, potentially causing costly damage. When there isn’t enough oil to lubricate the engine’s moving parts, they will wear significantly quicker. This can result in the engine eventually failing and needing an expensive replacement.
Camshaft Seal Repairs & Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car’s engine in need of new camshaft seals or engine camshaft seal diagnostics? If so, we can help!
At Grimmer Motors, our experienced, and skilled mechanics can remove the old, damaged camshaft seal from your engine. We can the replace it with a brand new one. This will prevent oil from leaking from your engine. We are also experienced with oil leak diagnostics and repairs.
For new camshaft seals, as well as camshaft seal repairs and replacements in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!