Just had the oil changed on my 2013 G37x sedan. Came home and put it in the garage for about 3-4 hours. Backed out and noticed 2-3 drops of oil on the ground, right where the drain plug would be. Saw the technician do the oil change from the waiting room, looked like he'd be doing service work for a very long time. I saw a DIY video on YouTube and it looks like there is a plastic tray underneath the oil filter. Could oil have gotten on the tray and maybe not all of it was cleaned up? I'm REALLY hoping this isn't totally uncommon and that it isn't a bigger deal other than maybe tightening the plug a little bit. Any input would be appreciated.

 

You can either take it back and have them check it out, or do it yourself. No, it's not normal. Yes it could be as simple as some oil spilled on top of the plastic under tray if they didn't completely remove it. If you get under there and take out the dozen or so 10 mm bolts holding it on you'll be able to see what the problem is. It's either going to be spilled oil drilling down, drain bolt not tightened, or filter not screwed down securely.

 

If you're going to check yourself, it will just take 4 bolts to release the flap. You should be able to find out pretty quickly where that leak is coming from--drain plug, filter or spillage from the top when refilling with new oil.

UCLAg37

 

The engine splash tray needs to be pulled back or taken off to do the oil change so it's doubtful any oil got there during the oil change and just ended up dripping out.

Derek, unless doing anything car related just isn't your thing, I'd strongly recommend doing your own oil changes, takes about 15 minutes of actual jacking and wrenching and you get a chance to keep an eye on your cars condition.

If not, I understand, but be prepared for a few of these WTF moments over the years, just happens

 

Well everyone I put some cardboard on the garage floor last night to see if I could catch any additional oil. Went out to check after about 12 hours and zero drips. So I'm guessing it was just some spillage from draining the oil. I'll keep checking on it over the next few days.

 

I use an old plastic shower curtain that the wife was throwing out to place under the vehicle to catch any oil drips



Telcoman

 

When doing own oil changes, it helps to remove the filter first......