2005 Ford Focus Oil Pan

JL Money · 05-25-2008, 04:42 PM

I just got my oil changed 2 days ago and its leaking oil. My best guess is that it got cracked one way or another when the drain plug was over tightened or no gasket/seal was between the plug and pan. Either way I'm trying to figure out the basics...
1) How much am I looking at? Oil pan, gasket, labor costs

2)is this something a DIY/bolt on repair?

3)I dont think running the risk of welding it would be right even if it is a hair line fracture in the pan but you guys feel free to give your 2 cents.

I tried doing searched on other forums and this one and couldnt find anything resembling this problem, so i apologies if this issue is repetitive.

FocusMom · 06-08-2008, 01:57 PM

I'd be interested in the answers too. My daughter just cracked hers.
thanks

phantom_smack · 06-08-2008, 04:50 PM

You sure the oil plug is not just stripped out? They do make oversize drain plugs if the threads are stripped.Most of the time the drain plug strips first and you can just replace the plug.Also could the oil filter be loose?

sae1080 · 06-30-2008, 06:57 PM

Perhasp the oil filter was not tightened??

HuneyMan · 07-31-2008, 02:20 AM

The place you had it changed should be responsible, but you can forget that, especially if it was a "quick change" place where they are notorious for stripping threads and cross threading the pan plug. Torque wrench unheard of same as tire dealers who over torque lug nuts to 150 ft lbs.

First ascertain exactly where the leak is then take corrective action. Phantom_ Smack is correct, they make oversize "soft" metal oil plugs available at dealer or parts stores. If plug leaking take it out and closely examine the threads by using a magnifying glass. If threads OK and plug leaking then it's threads in the pan plug hole and time to try an oversized plug. Teflon tape on the threads applied correctly is also an option. Look at the filter and check for leak. Oil filter should be tightened ONLY as hard as you can turn it with your hands. I've seen filter so over torqued the rubber gasket popped out. Put a piece of cardboard under the engine and let it sit over night and the oil spot should be directly under the leak. It would take a real idiot to overtighten to the point it cracked the oil pan, but it is possible. Learn how to DIY or to take it to a garage with certified mechanics rather than quick change place with a wrench puller who's making minimum wage and preoccupied about his date with Betty Lou hot pants more than than your car.

Oil will "creep" so if it has the underside wet dry it off before starting your diagnoses. Let it sit overnight then get under it and feel for the drip spot.

Let's get "torque" in perspective. Lug nuts usually 90 to 100 ft lbs while oil pan drain plug 20 ft lbs. Filter tightened 8 to 10 ft lbs. Now you see why they strip them so often. Basically all you do is "snug" the plug. Don't worry, heat expands metal and it won't fall out.