Engine Oil Leak from Front of Vehicle (Replace Engine Front Cover and/or Gasket)

Some customers may comment on a engine oil leak coming from the front of the vehicle.

The leak may be coming from the front cover or gasket.

Clean the area of the leak, add fluorescent dye to the engine oil, and run the engine. Carefully evaluate the oil leak to ensure that it is coming from the front cover or gasket. Leaks from the cam covers or cam phasers may drip down the front of the engine and appear to be coming from the front cover.

For engines built before engine number (1) L050460029, replace the engine front cover and gasket. Engines built on or after engine number L050460029 only need the gasket replaced. Refer to the Engine Front Cover Replacement procedure in the Engine Mechanical sub-section of the Service Manual (SI Document ID 1551845 (SRX), 1344162 (STS) or 924048 (XLR)).

Important: Thoroughly clean the mating surface of the engine block and front cover (if necessary), removing all sealer and engine oil. Apply a 6 mm (0.25 in) diameter bead (chocolate chip size) of gray engine sealer, P/N 12378521 (Canadian P/N 88901148), or equivalent, to the left and right sides of the front side of the gasket at the area of the upper and lower crankcase split line. Apply thread sealer, P/N 12345382 (Canadian P/N 10953489), or equivalent, to all bolts prior to installation. All of the engine front cover bolts should be tightened to 15N·m(11 lb ft).

Parts are expected to be available from GMSPO on May 20, 2005.

For vehicles repaired under warranty, use: