What To Do If You’ve Spilled Oil On Your Engine

by Synthetic Oil | Last Updated: April 30, 2023

When you are checking or changing engine oil, one of the most frustrating things that can happen is a spill. Even minor oil spills will have you red in the face. Not only is engine oil messy, but it can also be dangerous if not properly cleaned up. Engine oil is designed to lubricate the internal components of your motor, so it’s important to keep it where it belongs. That’s why you are going to learn what to do if you’ve spilled oil on your engine, including how to clean it up, and what could happen if you don’t. Let’s begin!

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What Happens If You Spill Oil On Your Engine?

There are a lot of things that can happen, so it is important that you know the consequences. The first thing is not to panic. Spilling oil is not the end of the world if you act accordingly. What matters is that you thoroughly clean it up before starting the engine. You also do not want to let the oil sit anywhere within the engine bay aside from where it belongs—in the engine itself.

For starters, oil can damage the rubber hoses and belts in your engine compartment. It can also clog the air filter and contaminate the fuel system. If oil gets into your engine’s wiring, it can cause electrical shorts and even fires.

Oil can also cause damage to the engine itself. If oil gets into the combustion chamber, it can cause the engine to run improperly or even seize up. Oil can also create a barrier between the engine and the air, making it harder for the engine to cool itself.

What To Do If You’ve Spilled Oil on Your Engine

Here are the steps you can take to minimize damage to your engine after spilling oil on it:

1. Continue Filling The Oil to the Correct Level

The first thing you should do is check the oil level in your engine. If the oil level is low, you will need to add more oil to bring it back up to the correct level. Be sure to use the correct type of oil for your engine, as specified in your owner’s manual.

2. Wipe Up Accessible Oil

Next, use a clean rag or paper towel to wipe up as much of the spilled oil as possible. Be careful not to touch any hot parts of the engine, as the oil may be hot and can burn you. You can also use an absorbent material, such as cat litter or baking soda, to soak up any remaining oil.

3. Wash The Engine

Once you’ve wiped up as much oil as possible, it’s time to wash the engine. Use a degreaser or engine cleaner that is designed to remove oil and grease. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product carefully, and avoid getting any water into the electrical components of your engine. Rinse the engine thoroughly with clean water and let it dry completely before starting the engine.

This video shows you the best way to clean the engine bay of spilled oil and everything else:

4. Run The Engine

Once the engine is dry, start it up and let it run for a few minutes. This will help to burn off any remaining oil and allow you to check for any leaks or other problems.

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Up an Oil Spill?

Although some of the consequences of an oil spill have already been mentioned, the danger should not be overlooked or underestimated. Motor oil is extremely important to the internal parts of a working engine, but it is not beneficial on the outside. All the ways oil is beneficial to your engine will be negative when it’s not in its proper place.

You have already read that oil can attract dirt and debris, clogging the air filter. It may also corrode belts and hoses, leading to premature failure. Furthermore, oil can create a barrier between the engine and the air, which can cause the engine to overheat.

But it gets worse! Over time, spilled engine oil can corrode the engine block and other components, leading to long-term damage and expensive repairs. Should any oil get onto electrical components, you have a chance at shorts or fires.

Spilled oil is also an environmental hazard. Not only is it slippery, but it may also get into your tires, which will reduce traction, potentially causing a loss of control while driving. Plus it isn’t good for the environment either.

Can I Drive With Oil Spilled on My Engine?

It is not recommended to drive your vehicle after spilling oil on the engine. As mentioned earlier, oil can damage various parts within and around the engine, so you should clean it as soon as possible.

How Long Does It Take For Spilled Oil to Burn Off The Engine?

The amount of time it takes for spilled oil to burn off your engine can vary depending on a number of factors, including the amount of oil spilled and the temperature of the engine. In general, it can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours for the oil to burn off.

And if you see white smoke, the spilled oil may be the cause.

Can Spilling Oil on the Engine Cause a Fire?

Yes, spilling oil on your engine can cause a fire if it comes into contact with a hot surface, such as the exhaust manifold. While engine oil is not flammable, it is combustible at certain temperatures. This is another reason why it is essential to clean up all spilled oil before turning on your vehicle. Do not drive your car until the engine has been thoroughly cleaned and inspected.

Final Thoughts

Spilling oil on your engine can be a frustrating experience, but it doesn’t have to be a disaster. Following the steps outlined above, you can minimize the damage and get your engine back in good shape. Remember to always use caution when working with hot engines and take steps to prevent fires and other safety hazards. And if you’re not comfortable working on your engine yourself, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a qualified mechanic.