Auto Care FAQs by Carter Volkswagen: Why is my Engine Low on Oil?

A modern car should have the same amount of oil in it when you visit for your next oil change that they put in during the last one — but when something starts to go wrong, your oil level could begin to drop. You might have a leak somewhere allowing oil to slowly seep out. The car might be burning oil in the engine, slowly enough that you don't notice until your car's oil level warning light turns on. But either of those possibilities is bad news. You'll want to have the engine checked out by the professionals to see if they can't find a leak, or prevent your engine from burning excess oil.

We've compiled below the most common reasons for a low oil level in your Volkswagen. If these symptoms sound like your car, schedule an appointment with our service team to have it inspected by factory-trained technicians. Our service team knows more about caring for your Volkswagen than anyone else in Seattle!

Most Common Engine Oil Leaks

If you haven't noticed any smoke coming from the tailpipe as you drive, but your driveway is starting to look like a grey and black Jackson Pollock painting, you've probably got an oil leak. But if the leak is a little slower, and hasn't been leaving oil stains where it's parked, you might want to peek under the vehicle. Grab a flashlight and get as low to the ground as you can, and peer under the vehicle. Look for signs of moisture, or places where liquid appears to be dripping. If you notice a drip or ooze in a brownish color, that's likely your engine oil leak.

No signs of a leak? It could be that your engine is burning the oil internally instead — but if it's a small enough leak, you might just not be able to see it. We'll use special tools and plenty of experience in our service center at Carter Volkswagen to find your engine leak.