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MINI cars are efficient and convenient car models that are fun to drive and customizable to show your personality. However, this does not mean they do not run into problems. One of the common problems with MINI cars is the crank seal damage which usually results in oil leaks.
The crank seal covers the crankshaft, keeping engine oil from seeping out while it works and also keeping impurities from entering into the crankshaft. A faulty seal is dangerous as it could damage the car’s engine and other components. Hence, we have discussed some tips to help you identify a damaged seal and how to fix the problem.
Common Causes of Crank Seal Oil Leak in a MINI
Wear & Tear
The crank seal is made of metal and rubber parts that provide an adhesive seal and prevent oil from getting out. However, this seal could fail due to wear and tear. As your car ages and performs more tasking functions, the rubber part could start to tear and wear off, giving space for oil to escape the crankshaft.
Excessive Engine Heat
The engine and the components around it produce heat as they function. If the heat regulatory system of the vehicle does not function as adequately as it should, the engine could get extremely hot and this heat could lead to damage to the crank seal.
The rubber part of the seal could melt and thus compromise its function. Oil can then seep out of the crankshaft in this situation.
Faulty Engine Bearings
The engine bearings provide support to the crankshaft for easy rotation. These metal components could also cause oil to leak from the crankshaft if they get damaged by heat or engine stress. Faulty engine bearings will allow oil to pass the crank seal in a car.
How to Fix a Damaged MINI Crank Seal
If you notice that your car has a faulty crank seal, which is allowing engine oil to leak out of the crankshaft, then you need to fix it as soon as possible to prevent the oil from damaging other components of your vehicle. Here are some tips to help you.
1. Identify the source of the leak
The first thing you should do when you notice engine oil is leaking from your vehicle is to check what is wrong. Engine oil could be leaking due to various reasons, so you have to inspect the crankshaft and its seals to be sure it is the cause of the leak.
You should check for visible signs of damage like a broken or worn-out seal. Locating the source and cause of the leak would help you find an effective solution.
2. Finding a temporary fix
You could notice that your MINI’s crank seal is leaking oil and you may not be in a position to find professional help. For example, you could be home or far away from a mechanic’s shop. It is not advisable to drive a long distance with engine oil leaking from your car. Doing this will not only damage surrounding components, but could also cause damage to your car’s engine.
In this case, finding a temporary solution that keeps engine oil in your car till you get professional help is important. You could refill the oil or use a sealant to stop the leak.
3. Get Professional Help
Finding a quick solution, such as using a sealant or adhesive should not be the endpoint in fixing a leaking crank seal. You need to find a lasting solution that does not put your car at future risk. Getting a professional mechanic to look at your car is the best bet.
Not only will the mechanic find a solution, but they will also provide recommendations to prevent this from happening again.
Best Professional Mechanic Shop in Marlborough
If you are looking for the best Automobile 
shop for your car repair needs, then you have found the right place for quality maintenance and repair services.
Professional Automotive is your go-to option if you need quality maintenance and repair services for your car in Marlborough. We are a team of professionally trained technicians with years of experience in putting cars back together. Hence, whatever the problem is with your MINI, we will find it and fix it.
* Gray Mini Cooper Car image credit goes to: Luca Piccini Basile.