I was just outside in the driveway and I noticed some fresh oil spots--and I kneel and took a look under my car and I see there is some drips of oil on the underbody that is directly next to the passenger side--front wheel. I was wondering if anyone might know what this leak is--motor oil or tranny? It feels like motor oil since I had it changed not too long ago--and there is some smell but just very clear colored oil.

Could this be from the cold where gaskets, seals and things like that shrink and leaks are more apparent. I only have 31K on the car--so it is a bit freaky--and I am also wondering if it is because I moved to synthetic oil too--which I have read on the board could potentially be more proned to leaks...
anyone have any ideas?

thanks

 

I had this kind of problem not too long ago. But my oil was dripping pretty fast. I think your problem is the oil filer which is not properly attached, or leaking oil switch. Check that out first, if u dunno how bring it to any service station.
I doubt it's your tranny leaking.

 

Is it anywhere near you strut??
________
Wong Amat Tower Condo

 

Leaky oil filter. Tighten.
Leaky oil pressure sending unit. Tighten or replace.

Inspect the inside surface of the tire. If it is a royal mess, that is evidence of a cut in the Constant Velocity joint boot. This may result from running over a piece of metal road trash which bounced up and damaged the boot. This kind of damage could happen to a brand new car. It is bad luck, not bad design or materials.

It's unlikely to be the transmission, as that part is located on the driver's side of the engine compartment.

 

I went back and I went under the car--as much as I could squeeze my body under the car with a flashlight. As I could make out, the oil filter is tight and the nut (for oil pan) seems clean. The oil filter is clean along with the inside of the wheel--no mess. There is only a bit of oil by the frame by the inside jack point (it is around that area) and I am not sure if there is any point along there that could be leaking motor oil? or could this be residue--but then again, there is 3 or 4 3-4 inch (diameter) size oil marks on the floor...darn...

 

A small amount of oil can spread out and cover a big area. Check the dipstick. If the oil level is FULL your car is safe to drive. Further investigation can wait until daylight, and maybe a warm day.