Identifying Early Signs of Rear Main Seal Leak in A Volkswagen

Alright, you ride a Volkswagen, and you have encountered oil leakage in a complex element like the rear main seal. Quite frustrating, isn’t it? Don’t stress! Well, the rear main seal is a rubber or silicone gasket situated between the engine and transmission system responsible for storing the engine oil inside the oil pan below the engine as well as allowing the crankshaft to rotate.

However, like any efficient machine, the rear main seal may also rupture over time, especially due to excess heat and pressure, developing single or multiple leaks on its walls and leaking out the engine oil. This not only affects different engine components but also degrades the overall vehicle performance, triggering more engine trouble down the line. This may also lead to permanent engine failure if left untreated. Calm down!

This particular article is all about knowing the starting symptoms of rear main seal leakage so that you can easily detect the trouble and fix it, achieving a flawless journey in your cherished Volkswagen in the long run.

Initial indicators to spot when your Volkswagen encounters rear main seal leak

Oil marks under your car

If you see oil spots or puddles under your car while parked for a while, it might be a clear indication that the rear main seal is leaking the engine oil. Well, yes, there are chances that any other engine component might be leaking, but the rear main seal is more prone to oil drips than any other engine parts.

Burning oil odor

You may smell a burning oil aroma if the rear main seal is seeping the engine oil. Because the dripping oil usually falls on the hot engine parts and exhaust system. Due to excessive heat, the dripped oil starts burning, producing an unpleasant burning oil odor. Thus, you must ignore these alerts as it may mean your engine is at risk.

Insufficient engine oil

When the engine oil starts leaking out of the oil pan, it is usual that the oil level continuously degrades even after refilling the pan frequently. So, if you notice a low oil warning light or message on your Volkswagen’s dashboard, it is a clear indication that the rear main seal might be the culprit.

Abnormal engine performance

Due to a lack of engine oil, the engine may go through oil pressure issues, encountering troubles like rough idling, degraded engine efficiency, or unusual noises while running or ignition. This usually happens due to a lack of lubrication and overheating, causing wear and tear to the engine walls, as the engine oil is insufficient.

Dampness underside

One of the serious hints is to notice the oil-coated part or area within the engine and transmission system. You can check it by crawling under your car. You may also take the help of a mechanic to do the same. In this case, the usual suspect might be the rear main seal.

Why does your Volkswagen’s rear main seal start leaking engine oil?

 One of the most common reasons behind the rear main seal is aging. Like other vehicle components, it can also wear out over time, especially in high-mileage Volkswagens.

 Not using the right type of engine oil, as mentioned in the manufacturer’s manual, can also trigger rear main seal leaks. Also, if you don’t change the oil on time, the contaminated oil won’t perform its task properly, causing different engine issues, including this one.

 If the engine is facing issues like a blocked PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve, pressuring the oil to get out of the seal, then as a result, the rear main seal may easily leak.

 When the rear main seal is not installed properly at the time of previous repair or replacement, this may also create leaks on its walls.

The bottom line

With this, we have come to the end of the comprehensive guide, explaining the warning indicators noticed due to the rear main seal seeping out engine oil. As you have learned, if you observe oil drips, insufficient oil, or strange engine symptoms, take it seriously. Since these engine issues are tough to tackle at home, you must visit the nearest Volkswagen service center and seek professional assistance to replace the leaking rear main seal to get everything back on track.