Expert: William Hawk Howes - 9/5/2009

Question
Lately, I have noticed small spots of oil on the garage floor after my 1996 Buick Century has been parked overnight or for a few days.  The spots appear to be oil and are located on the garage floor towards the center-right to right of the car.  Today I parked the car all day in the driveway, which is on a slight incline and the driveway had a more pronounced oil stain (not drips).  I am overdue - about 4000 miles overdue - for an oil change (shame on me) and am wondering if I have anything to worry about?  I am taking it to my auto facility this weekend.  In the last month with less than 500 miles driven, I noticed tonight that I am down a half quart of oil.  Also, when I looked underneath the car from the right, there is thick "oil"-appearing stuff on a black ribbed plastic hose with a clamp on it and it appears to be leaking at the clamp, althoug not dripping, but accumulated on and around the plastic ribbed hose and the clamp.  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Hello Phylicia,

Sorry for the delay in responding.
Oil leaks, at least small ones are not a serious problem. But should be looked at the next time you take your vehicle in for service.
If, as in your case, you notice a leak. Please take your car to a "mechanic shop" of your choice, not a "Quick lube place"
"Quick Lubers" usually are not trained mechanics and probably have no idea why there is a leak. Whereas, a trained mechanic can find the actual source (oil drips can be from a really distant location from the visible dripping area)and know what to do to repair the problem. Could be a loose clamp, or a rear main bearing seal on the engine. Either way, a trained mechanic can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Remember to use a good name brand oil designed for your vehicle, and (this is really important) your particular climate! A good mechanic will know what you need.
Good driving! And thanks for asking.

Hawk