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MINIs are an automobile marvel. MINI cars are efficient and convenient models that are not only fun to drive but also customizable, allowing you to express your personality. However, this does not mean they do not run into problems. With its sturdy feel and almost perfect design, it’s hard to imagine anything going wrong. However, there is a problem that can create recurring trouble for MINIs: the crank seal oil leak.
Have you ever noticed oil puddles under your MINI after it has been parked for a while? This typically indicates an oil leak in one of the systems that transport oil in your car’s engine, and it usually requires more maintenance by MINI experts, such as those at MotorHaus, located near you in West Palm Beach, Florida (FL). Let’s take a closer look at the key aspects of the crank seal in a MINI.
What is a Crankshaft Seal and How Does it Work?
A crankshaft seal is a component that is attached to the front of the engine. This part seals the end of the crankshaft, along with the timing cover, and is typically made from a combination of metal and rubber or metal and silicone. Sealing the end of the crankshaft as it rotates, this part is installed in the front timing cover. The crankcase is installed just below the cylinders and helps transfer energy from the engine to the wheels, allowing you to move your vehicle. To function correctly, this component needs to be free from friction and submerged in oil.
The role of the crankshaft seal is to keep that oil in the crankshaft cavity and prevent it from leaking. As the crankshaft rotates, it tosses a lot of oil around. The crank seal keeps this oil contained, preventing oil from leaking outside of the crankcase. If this component fails, oil can leak out, which could pose a serious risk of engine damage if not addressed promptly by certified technicians, like those at MotorHaus, located near you in West Palm Beach, FL.
3 Consequences of Crank Seal Oil Leak on MINI’s Performance in West Palm Beach, FL
1. Poor Engine Performance
The engine is a crucial component in any vehicle; without a functioning engine, your MINI cannot perform its functions. The engine relies on various elements and materials to function, with oil playing a crucial role as a lubricant that enables parts to run smoothly without excessive heat or friction. If you lose oil due to a crank seal oil leak, then the engine’s performance can be negatively impacted, leading to poor acceleration, stalling, and in worst cases, engine failure. To avoid this, visit our garage located near you in West Palm Beach and Jupiter, FL.
2. Engine Overheating
The oil in the engine serves two primary purposes: to reduce friction in the engine and to regulate the engine’s temperature. However, due to crank seal oil leaks, the volume of oil available for these functions in the engine decreases below normal levels. As a result, there is insufficient oil to lubricate the moving parts, which can cause engine components to wear out and also raise the engine’s temperature, leading to overheating. It is no news that an overheating engine is a poorly performing engine.
3. Poor Fuel Economy
Crank seal oil leaks also impact fuel consumption, which in turn affects fuel economy. With oil leaks, the engine is left with less oil to function with. The result of this is usually increased friction between moving parts and engine overheating. In this case, the engine’s output drops. However, the engine then works even harder to deliver the performance you demand. This extra work increases the engine’s fuel consumption; as a result, the car uses more fuel, and this cycle ultimately leads to poor fuel efficiency. To resolve this problem, visit us at MotorHaus, conveniently located near you in Palm Beach and Delray Beach, FL.
MotorHaus: The Best Auto Repair Shop for MINIs in West Palm Beach, FL
Dealing with oil leaks in any part of your car requires deliberate attention. Once you start seeing signs of oil leaks, such as oil puddles under your car or frequently low oil levels, you must act immediately by contacting the best-in-class MINI service center. We at MotorHaus are located near you in West Palm Beach, FL. We house ASE-certified technicians who have been working exclusively on German auto models, such as MINI, BMW, Audi, and so on, since 2012.
Our ASE-certified technicians are experts in their field of work. We are pleased to offer you a 24-month/24,000-mile warranty for added reassurance and peace of mind. We also provide free Uber and Lyft within a 5-mile radius, along with a Night drop-off facility. Call or visit us to schedule your appointment today and enjoy our comfortable waiting area, complete with free WiFi, coffee, and refreshments, while we work on your car.