Hey there, dealing with engine oil leaks on your Infiniti Q50 can be a bit of a headache, but with some patience, you can often track down the source of the problem yourself. First things first, you’ll want to figure out where the oil is coming from. Start by thoroughly cleaning the engine and the surrounding areas where you suspect the leak might be. Once it’s clean, run the engine for a bit, and then take a close look to see where fresh oil might be seeping out.
Common places to check include the valve cover gaskets, oil pan gasket, and the front and rear main seals. If the leak is around the top of the engine, it could be the valve cover gasket. Over time, these gaskets can wear out or become brittle, causing oil to leak down the sides of the engine. If the leak is coming from the bottom, it could be the oil pan gasket or even the drain plug, especially if the plug wasn't tightened properly after your last oil change.
Another spot to check is around the oil filter and the oil cooler, if your Q50 is equipped with one. Sometimes, the oil filter gasket can get pinched during installation, or the oil cooler lines can develop leaks. If you notice oil around the front of the engine, it might be the front crankshaft seal or timing cover gasket.
If you’re still having trouble pinpointing the leak, you can try using an oil dye kit. You add the dye to the oil, run the engine, and then use a UV light to see where the oil is leaking from. It’s a handy trick that can save you a lot of time.
If the leak is severe or if you're not comfortable diagnosing it yourself, it’s probably a good idea to take it to a mechanic. They can do a pressure test and other checks to find the exact source of the leak. Catching and fixing oil leaks early can save you from bigger problems down the road, like engine damage or more costly repairs. Good luck!