How Serious Can A Subaru Oil Leakage Be?

So you park your Subaru overnight, and the next morning you notice a dark puddle forming underneath. It’s a little annoying, sure—but is it actually a big deal? Oil leakage is one of those issues that can start off small and go unnoticed for a while, but the longer it’s ignored, the more serious—and expensive—it can become. If you're seeing signs of a leak or just want peace of mind, the certified team at Empire Subaru can help inspect and diagnose the issue. You can also check out their current service specials and maintenance options to address leaks before they escalate.

Oil leaks aren’t just about dirty driveways. They're about engine health, vehicle safety, and performance. In Subarus—especially older models or high-mileage vehicles—oil leaks can be linked to specific engine components like the head gaskets, valve cover gaskets, or even the oil pan. Let’s walk through just how serious an oil leak can get and what it might mean for your car.

What Causes Oil Leaks in Subarus?

Subaru engines, especially the famous horizontally-opposed Boxer engines, are known for certain leak-prone areas as they age. These engines sit low and flat, which means any seal failure can result in oil dripping straight to the ground. Some of the most common causes of oil leakage in Subarus include:

• Worn valve cover gaskets – These rubber seals sit on top of the engine and can degrade over time
• Leaking oil pan gaskets – Positioned at the bottom of the engine, this is another frequent culprit
• Head gasket failure – A more serious (and expensive) cause, especially common in older Subaru models
• Cracked oil filter housings or loose filters
• Faulty camshaft or crankshaft seals
• Over-tightened or damaged drain plugs

Most of these leaks develop gradually. That’s why it’s so important to catch them early—before a few drips turn into major repair bills.

Signs Your Subaru Might Be Leaking Oil

If you suspect an oil leak, don’t rely solely on visible drips. There are plenty of subtle symptoms to keep an eye (and nose) out for:

• Burning oil smell – Often due to oil dripping onto hot engine components
• Blue or gray smoke coming from under the hood or exhaust
• Decreased oil levels between oil changes
• Oil warning light on the dashboard
• Sticky or dirty engine surfaces
• Dirt and grime collecting in oily patches around the engine

If your oil light comes on or your Subaru starts to smell like burning rubber, it’s definitely time to get it checked out. Oil doesn’t just disappear—it’s either leaking or burning, and either way, it needs attention.

How Serious Can It Get?

It all depends on where the leak is coming from and how long it’s been happening. Here’s a breakdown of how oil leakage can escalate if left unchecked:

1. Reduced Lubrication

Oil is your engine’s lifeblood. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and prevents overheating. A leak means your engine isn’t getting the oil it needs, which can lead to increased wear and premature damage.

2. Overheating Issues

Without enough oil to regulate temperature, engine components can overheat. This might lead to warped parts or catastrophic engine failure—especially on long drives or hot summer days.

3. Complete Engine Failure

In worst-case scenarios, an unnoticed oil leak can drain your system dry. Driving with little or no oil will eventually seize the engine, leaving you with a repair that may cost more than the car is worth.

4. Fire Hazard

While not common, oil leaks that drip onto hot surfaces like the exhaust manifold can spark engine fires. That sticky burning smell coming through the vents? It could be more serious than it seems.

5. Environmental Damage & Safety Concerns

Oil on the ground isn’t just messy—it’s also hazardous to the environment and could cause someone to slip. In some states, consistent leakage could even lead to inspection failure or fines.

When Should You Bring Your Subaru In?

Honestly? The moment you notice anything out of the ordinary. Even if it turns out to be minor—like an old gasket or loose plug—it’s better to fix it early. Many oil leaks can be resolved with relatively simple repairs when caught soon enough.

It’s also worth getting a multi-point inspection during your regular oil change appointments. Technicians can spot early leaks, monitor known problem areas, and make recommendations before things get worse.

Whether your dashboard light just came on or you've been topping off oil between every few drives, Empire Subaru can help pinpoint the source of the leak and get your Subaru running clean and dry again.