Overfilled oil change can be dangerous and check engine light
I recently had my oil changed. After looking around under the hood occasionally as you have recommended I discovered the oil level is about ¾” above the full mark on the dipstick. Could this be normal or should I return the car for correction? Can this cause a problem? – Peter L.
This should be rectified! An overfilled crankcase may result in the crankshaft striking the oil, possibly enough so to whip the oil into a froth. Frothy oil results in a loss of vital oil pressure and can result in serious engine damage. Increased crankcase pressure may also occur, which could push oil past seals, causing leaks. Seal damage isn’t likely, but who needs the mess?
If you haven’t noticed frothing on the dipstick or oil spots, you should beOK. But have this fixed, as a precaution!
I just had a check engine light happen, My son checked it with his little tool and phone and said its a P0440 code. How serious is this? Can I still drive back and forth to work until I can get it fixed? – Nora
It sounds like your son is using an Elm327 interface device ($10-20) or similar in conjunction with his phone and a downloaded app such as Torque Pro. This can be a simple and inexpensive way to look at certain engine operating functions along with diagnostic codes. Cheaper interface devices can be buggy.
Your P0440DTC(diagnostic trouble code) indicates a fault in the EVAP (evaporative emissions control system), likely causing a fuel vapor leak to the atmosphere. The EVAP system gathers and holds fuel tank and fuel system vapors, storing them in a charcoal canister until it’s a good time to purge them (they are drawn into the engine for consumption). An EVAP system leak will pose no problems for vehicle operation but should be fixed when you can for environmental reasons and to be able to pass an emissions inspection.
A loose or faulty fuel filler cap is a common cause of this code. Try removing the cap, inspect the rubber seal for problems, and securely reinstall it. Depending on fuel level and driving trip characteristics, it can take several days or more for the OBD-II system to repeatedly run the EVAP system monitor (test) and see three successful trips before turning off the light. Your son’s app may provide a code clearing function, which would be immediate. Other P0440 causes can be challenging to locate, such as a faulty purge or vent valve, leaking canister, hose, or tank filler neck. Diagnosing such a fault is a pro level repair!
In last week’s strut replacement column I pretty much boo-hoo’d the idea of replacing struts at home. Reader Bob G. politely reminded me that Quick Struts can make this a moderately easy DIY job (a wheel alignment check after is still recommended) Yikes! I had a gray moment! Quick Struts are complete replacement struts, also including the coil spring and upper mount, and cost perhaps only 25-40% more than an identical bare strut. Renewing the complete assembly also makes sense on a higher mileage vehicle as possible spring sag and a worn upper mount would no longer be of concern. Strut upper mounts are like a sandwich, connecting the strut to the vehicle body structure. They contain a thick rubber cushion, and on front struts, a bearing to allow steering rotation. Symptoms of a worn strut mount can include clunking, stiff or sloppy steering, and tire wear due to alignment shifting.