I've searched through the other various threads and it seems as though i've got a unique oil leak.

This is coming from the far rear of the engine on the passenger side of the car. I crawled underneith the car last night looking for the usual suspects such as cam covers and valve covers but it looks to be coming from this sensor on the far rear of the block. Can anyone tell me what this sensor is and if you've seen an oil lead from it before? This is actually located above the cam covers if I remember the orientation correctly but it doesn't appear from what i can see that the leak is coming from above this object. Pretty confined in there though and difficult to tell for sure.

Here's the picture of where I believe the leak is coming from.


Also...completely tangent topic but how do you remove the stud for the spare tire after taking the tire out of the car?

Andy

 

What you're looking at the variocam solenoid. The two hex head bolts are for the seal around it. Without seeing the car in person I couldn't tell you thats the leak for sure, but a leaking variocam seal isn't uncommon on these cars. You can buy a new seal for cheap and its easy to replace, all you need is a 10mm socket and wrench. I think the torque for those is 90 inch lbs.

 

ive seen the sensros them selves leak as well, I would try the seal and see what happens and if it contiues leaking you may need a sensor

 

I appreciate the info guys. I'm going to pick up a new seal and take everything apart this weekend. Do I need to be particularly careful with this sensor when handling it to avoid damage. Also will oil drain from the motor when I pull the sensor off?

Is there anything located above the sensor that I should check for leaks while I'm in there?

Again I appreciate the help.

Andy