2001 Infiniti QX4 oil leak detection / fix

[fbonds]

I've got a 2001 Infiniti QX4. It's got a slight oil leak dripping from just behind the front wheels. It's slight.. several drops a day.

It just had an oil change and the issue occurred before and after the oil change at the same rate. I'm thinking that likely rules out a loose drain plug on the oil pain. (but I will check that of course)

Looking for

1. Likely culprits based on location of leak.
2. Detection methods

The guy at Firestone who did the oil change, said I could have the engine steam-cleaned and fluorescent dye put in the oil. Then the leak would show up under UV. Sounds like a great way to find the leak, but it doesn't sound inexpensive.

I found fluorescent dye for oil based systems on amazon, can I just add that to the oil and shine a blacklight around the engine after a couple days? Is the steam cleaning part really necessary? Is the steam clean / fluorescent method the best way to look for leaks?

Thanks!!

[eduJ]

Fluorescent dye is probably the easiest way to do it. Steam cleaning isn't strictly necessary, but it would make it easier for you to find where the leak is originating from. It could be the oil-cooler O-Ring, which is a cheap fix. Did you check the oil filter to see if it is leaking from there?

[Chuck Tribolet]

Steam clean here in Silicon Valley is about $125 (Adm. Linda just had to do it to her Passat wagon).

The first thing I would do is remove the cardboard (or plastic or whatever) "skid pan" and use a few cans of Gunk on the engine, then see what happens.

Is it just behind both front wheels?

Chuck

[fleurys]

the 3.5l has a reputation of leaking at the oil cooler. It is a round piece just where you stated. Have a look yourself if you can and if it is the case, you will see the oil cooler all covered with oil... other than that, I don't know of any chronic oil dripping issue with this engine... (mine had to be changed also)..