Looking at a car (and for those of you who might know who and which car, I'd appreciate your discretion with any of the details in a response, or you can PM me).

Current owner had either the valve cover gaskets or gaskets plus covers replaced (not sure which) 6-8 months ago. In the PPI the mechanic says that there is a leak. They said it looks fairly substantial on one side, but the current owner does not see any drippage nor oil usage (and has the engine cover removed so would see dripping on a very clean garage floor).

I know the owner who is a stand up guy so I have no reason to disbelieve anything he has told me. So, I'm in sort of a hard spot...given the work was done by a quality shop, and the PPI was done by a quality shop, and they see oil...any thoughts/recommendations anyone has on why that would be happening and/or what I should do?

Thanks,

 

Ask the seller. These cars do dribble a bit; get another opinion possibly? Good luck!

 

Not sure if this will help...

When I had the PPI done on my car the gaskets were leaking. I had them replaced by the same shop that did the PPI who is also very reputable. When I took delivery of the car, the covers were clean and dry. After less than one year I could see seepage and after two years they are quite messy and occasionally leave a drop of oil. I need to get under there and check bolt torque but I suspect that new valve covers will be needed.

It is quite possible that the current owner does not see any drops depending on their driving pattern. If I fill the oil to 1/2 to 3/4 full per the dipstick and run it hard, it will leave a drop. If I run it easy it will not. If the oil drops below 1/2 it typically does not leave a drop. Also, it is nearly impossible to see under there unless the car is lifted so your average owner may have never even looked at it.

So, the current owner may be completely honest, but that doesn't change the fact that oil is leaking. The shop that did mine took before and after digital photos of the valve covers and included them with the PPI report since I was handling everything from long distance. Perhaps your shop will do the same?

Good Luck!!

 

It never hurts to ask the seller, that's always the best bet for questions before you buy the car. Also when you test drive it and like it, make sure things feel right and ask the seller about if you don't feel it's right.

 

Agreed, but other side of the country, so can't really peek myself. I talked to the seller, and he confirmed he doesn't see anything on the floor. I believe him. He'd either say he was selling car with an issue, or fix the issue before selling.

 

The question is, is the engine undertray on or off?

 

Off.

 

Turns out only lower VC gaskets were changed...seems the uppers are leaking a bit too. Seems mystery solved.