The Best Shop in Bellingham to Fix Crank Seal Oil Leaks in Your MINI

Posted on February 17, 2021 by Carson Wileman

When thinking about unconventional design paired with luxury and high performance, one would imagine the Mini Cooper. It provides a fun experience that car enthusiasts have come to expect.

Mini Coopers are excellent machines but over time can develop a crank seal leak. A damaged seal will lead to an oil leak, which could cause additional engine problems down the road.

When ignored, a damaged crank seal will lead to extensive engine damage and can come with a hefty price tag to repair the vehicle. After noticing a possible crank seal leak, it is vital that you seek an experienced mechanic that specializes in servicing the Mini Cooper.

What is a crank seal?

The crankshaft seal plays an essential role in the proper function of an engine. It is located at the end of the crankshaft, which is found in the engine compartment and is made out of rubber and metal.

A crankshaft is the backbone of the engine and relies on oil to keep it running smoothly. The crank seal simply prevents oil from getting out and keeps dirt or debris from getting in. If the crank seal is damaged in any way, it could cause a considerable oil leak that can result in catastrophic engine failure.

A crank seal may dry out, crack, or lose its flexibility over time. A damaged seal will cause oil leakage and it is essential to get your Mini Cooper checked out by a specialist as soon as possible to prevent any additional damage.

Common Reasons for a Crank Seal Oil Leak

There are some common reasons why crank seals start to leak or get damaged. If you fall into any of these categories, you should contact your MINI specialist to get it looked at it right away.

• High Mileage: Nothing lasts forever to include crankshaft seals. The end of life for a crankshaft seal is 100,000 miles and should be replaced before then. Prevention is key. By following the manufacturer’s recommended service plan, you could prevent more severe issues down the line. In this case, possible engine failure.
• Improper Installation: In an attempt to save money, many people try to replace the crank seal themselves. With inadequate training and a lack of experience, these DIY mechanics may cause significant damage to their vehicles. It is essential to have the proper tools and expertise to properly replace a crankshaft seal, which is why it is critical to seek out experienced mechanics that specialize in Mini Coopers.
• Cracked Seal: Crankshaft seals are made of rubber, which starts to dry out and crack over time. This could be due to a few reasons, such as the seal being stressed over some time or the rubber degrading.

As mentioned earlier, it is crucial to follow the service guidelines for your vehicle. If you notice an oil leak, you need to immediately get your car looked at by a professional. A damaged crank seal is a common issue that causes oil leaks, but multiple other problems could also cause an oil leak as well. Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified, experienced mechanic if you experience any leak or other mechanical problem.

Keith Cox Autobahn is Your #1 Choice

Our experienced mechanics at Keith Cox Autobahn will provide you top-notch service while replacing your crankshaft seal or any other vehicle repair. We are the number one German automobile specialist in the Bellingham area.

We are dedicated to providing affordable, quality services that you can count on. Our experienced mechanics will ensure that you get the highest quality performance out of your vehicle. We also provide a killer 36-month or 36,000-mile warranty that blows the rest of our competition out of the water. Need transportation? We will shuttle you to and from our auto shop. We are here to serve you.

Please give us a call, join us on Facebook, or make a reservation online today. Visit us today, and while you wait, enjoy a cup of gourmet coffee or bottled water with our complimentary Wi-Fi. Our goal is to make you feel at home while we take care of your vehicle. We look forward to providing you outstanding service at an affordable price.