my Skoda Octavia NFL (2020-Present) has an oil leak, where should I look?

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and safety equipment.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is cool.

2. Check and Replace the Oil Filter

• Tools Required: Oil filter wrench, oil catch pan, new oil filter.
• Remove the oil catch pan under the oil filter location.
• Use the oil filter wrench to remove the old oil filter.
• Apply a small amount of new oil to the gasket of the new oil filter.
• Install the new oil filter by hand until snug, then tighten it an additional 3/4 turn.

3. Inspect and Replace the Oil Drain Plug

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, new oil drain plug washer.
• Place the oil catch pan under the oil drain plug.
• Use the socket set to remove the oil drain plug.
• Check the washer for wear; replace it if necessary.
• Clean the drain plug and the surrounding area.
• Reinstall the drain plug and tighten it to the manufacturer’s torque specifications (usually around 25 Nm, but check your vehicle’s service manual).

4. Replace Valve Cover Gasket (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, scraper, new valve cover gasket.
• Remove any engine covers obstructing access to the valve cover.
• Disconnect any electrical connectors or hoses attached to the valve cover.
• Remove the bolts securing the valve cover using the socket set.
• Carefully lift off the valve cover, scraping off the old gasket material.
• Clean the mating surfaces on both the valve cover and engine.
• Place the new gasket in position and reattach the valve cover, tightening bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually in a crisscross pattern).

5. Inspect and Replace Oil Pan Gasket (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, scraper, new oil pan gasket.
• Drain the engine oil using the oil catch pan.
• Remove the oil drain plug and let the oil fully drain.
• Unbolt the oil pan using the socket set and remove it.
• Scrape off the old gasket material from the oil pan and engine block.
• Place the new gasket on the oil pan and reinstall it by tightening bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.