Hi All! I have a 2004 XJR that leaks oil, at least when it is not running. The undertray is removed and I find oil has dripped under the car by the front side of the engine. I've looked underneath and can't find the source of the leak. I just changed the oil and filter (Mann) and underfilled by about a quart to see if that would cure the leak but it did not. Any suggestions as to what could be causing the leak?

 

Thoroughly clean the area and recheck for leaks.

Most common leaks are from the VVT seals and cam cover gaskets.

 

Thanks. Did that and not seeing any notable leaks.

 

I have the same issue. Thought it was the lower oil pan, changed gasket - no change. It's either...

The o rings where the oil cooler/oil filter assembly attaches to the block (engine has to be lifted in order to swap) or more likely the lower part of the timing cover, which is a royal PITA to tackle, so I live with it and check the oil level regularly.

A plus, it keeps the metal chasis coated with oil so no rust...

 

Clean the area with any brake cleaner.
Then spray it with a deodorant that leaves a powder residue.
Any oil, or coolant leaking, will now leave a visible trail.

 

I was thinking it was the oil filter housing. Are you sure engine has to be lifted to replace the double o-ring seal?
I doubt it is the pan but i have purchased a new seal just in case.

 

Does the deodorant's particular fragrance make a difference? Should I use a lady's spray

 

Rexonaaaaaaa
are you sure the old oilfitergasket came of when you changed the filter . Just asking happened to me once

 

Most likely the oil filter adapter double o ring. Hard to diagnose, just change it and while your there also change the oil pan gasket as it is really easy. the adapter o ring is also easy and no the engine does not have to be raised. the lower fastener will hit the core support but just leave it in and remove with adapter.

 

As for brand of deodorant, never use the stuff myself, irritates my skin.
Seems any i ever used, left a powder residue.
So use any kind that leaves a powder residue.

 

Yes, there are 3 bolts - the bottom one will not clear the radiator frame. (I tried)

 

Aha, I didn't think of that. I'm swapping mine next oil change. Thanks for sharing this...

 

Yes, I always check the gasket and it was on the filter I removed.

 

Abonano, you mention lifting the engine whereas the Workshop Manual states engine mount removal (that really would be a PITA)!
In your experience, is simply undoing the lower engine mount nut and jacking the engine up by its sump (on a good load-spreading lump of timber) sufficient for removing the Oil Filter Housing to replace the o rings, please?

 

Well, oddly enough, after taking off the oil pan and bending and flexing it back and forth the old seal without actually removing it from the pan, the leak seems to have been resolved. I'll see today if there is oil on the floor of the garage. If not, then it seems the pan seal was the culprit! Good time to order a new one so that if/when it starts leaking again I'll just pop the new seal in. I will update in a day or two to see if this is the resolution. Amazing because it was leaking really badly when parked.....and I see the oil pan is very shallow, so that seal is literally holding the oil back and I suspect when the car is not running much more of the oil/ and thus pressure to escape, is resting in the pan.