Land Rover Oil Leak
Three weeks before, everything seemed fine.
Fresh from a main dealer check-up, Mr M’s Land Rover Discovery Sport showed no signs of a problem.
Then an oil patch appeared on his driveway… Talk about a nightmare. An oil patch is easy to miss at first, but it is a clear warning sign of his car leaking oil.
Oil leaking from your vehicle can result in heat build-up, friction, and long-term component wear, all of which you want to avoid as they can leave you with costly damage.
When Mr M came to South Coast Garage, Eastbourne, for a scheduled Land Rover service, he mentioned the leak to our technicians. They investigated straight away, ensuring the problem was addressed before it caused further damage.
Our aim was straightforward: pinpoint the Land Rover oil leak, repair it correctly, and prevent future issues.
Understanding the Signs of the Land Rover Oil Leak
At South Coast Garage, every reliable diagnosis starts with listening carefully.
Mr M explained when he first saw oil on his driveway and how often it appeared after driving. This kind of information allows our Land Rover experts to focus the inspection before any disassembly takes place.
A visual inspection confirmed traces of oil along the underside of the Land Rover’s drivetrain, indicating an active leak but not showing its exact location.
We connected our Land Rover diagnostic system and ran a complete fault scan. With no electronic faults present, our technicians began a manual inspection to identify the source of the oil leak.
The Discovery Sport’s underside was thoroughly cleaned to remove old oil and residue, providing a clean surface for spotting new signs of oil leaking. We checked and topped up the transfer box oil level and then conducted a controlled test drive to replicate the conditions.
When Mr M’s Land Rover returned to our garage, fresh oil marks confirmed an active leak and guided our next investigation.
As independent Land Rover experts, we use dealer-level diagnostic tools and manufacturer data to ensure accurate results and professional, transparent service.
Tracing the Source: A Land Rover Oil Leak at the Power Transfer Unit
After testing, the fresh oil residue was concentrated around the transfer box, also known as the Power Transfer Unit (PTU). This component manages power delivery between the front and rear wheels during four-wheel-drive operation.
Accessing Land Rover’s official service data, our team confirmed that PTU oil leaks can appear on some Discovery Sport models. One of the most common causes is wear at the input seal and sleeve interface.
To investigate the Land Rover oil leak further, the PTU was removed for full inspection.
Once separated, the problem was clear:
- The input seal was worn and brittle.
- The sleeve surface showed scoring from prolonged friction.
Together, they created a pathway for oil to leak, resulting in the oil patches on Mr M’s driveway.
As transfer boxes hold a small amount of oil, even minor leakage can cause internal damage in a short period. Fortunately, Mr M reported the issue right away when he brought his vehicle to us for a service, allowing our Land Rover experts to resolve it before it worsened.
Repairing the Fault: Precision Over Guesswork
Before starting the repair, our team of experts contacted Mr M to review the findings and agree on the most effective solution for the Land Rover oil leak.
At South Coast Garage, Eastbourne, we always ensure you are kept in the know. We only begin working on your vehicle when you say so, keeping you in full control from start to finish.
Once Mr M authorised our suggested solution, our technicians moved from diagnosis to precise, structured repair. Fixing a Land Rover PTU leak isn’t just about fitting a new seal; it demands accurate reassembly, precise alignment, and strict tolerance control.
Our Land Rover oil leak repair process was as follows:
- Recording alignment: Before disassembly, the PTU’s alignment relative to the gearbox was recorded. Maintaining this geometry ensures the new seal sits evenly once refitted.
- Inspecting all surfaces: With the PTU removed, every mating surface and sealing face was examined for wear, scratches, or distortion. Even microscopic damage can lead to premature leaks.
- Installing genuine Land Rover components: We used a genuine Land Rover seal and sleeve kit to ensure compatibility and long-term performance. Replacing both parts at once lowers the chance of the problem recurring down the line.
- Setting exact tolerances: Land Rover’s specialist installer tools were used to fit both components to precise depth and alignment. These measurements determine how effectively the PTU retains oil during operation.
- Renewing one-time-use fasteners: All single-use bolts, circlips, and washers were replaced and torqued according to Land Rover specifications to maintain even clamping pressure.
- Refilling and verification: Once reassembled, the PTU was filled with approved Land Rover oil, levels were checked, and the system was inspected for leaks.
- Final quality inspection: The PTU was cleaned and validated before testing to confirm that the repair was fully sealed and performing within specification.
Every step plays a role in the outcome. It’s this care and attention to detail that ensures the repair performs reliably for the long term.
Ensuring the Land Rover Oil Leak Was Fully Resolved
Following reassembly, our Land Rover expert technicians conducted a detailed quality-control process, which included an extended test drive to evaluate the PTU under working temperature and load.
Here’s what our experts found:
- No oil leaks.
- No traces of residue.
- No system faults.
Mr M’s Discovery Sport performed exactly as expected – responsive, smooth, and free from any sign of the car leaking oil.
Such certainty comes only from process and precision. Each element of the repair is verified before moving on, ensuring the work stands up to both manufacturer standards and everyday driving demands.
With the verification checks complete, our experts completed the scheduled Land Rover service and returned the Discovery Sport to Mr M in complete working order.
Delivering More Than a Repair: Proof You Can Trust
When Mr M came to collect his Land Rover Discovery Sport, our team explained every step of the repair and showed him the worn seal and sleeve responsible for the oil leak.
At South Coast Garage, Eastbourne, we view transparency and honesty as part of good workmanship. Showing you exactly what was found and how it was solved, and providing reassurance and proof of value.
By seeing the cause of the oil leak firsthand, Mr M understood exactly how a car leaking oil can lead to costly damage if left unresolved.
He was also pleased to see the work was completed faster than the main Land Rover dealer could schedule, with precise engineering, verified results and excellent value. Every measurement, tolerance, and test was recorded to confirm the repair met manufacturer standards for lasting reliability.
Land Rover Oil Leak? Let South Coast Garage, Eastbourne, solve it
Having oil spots on your driveway is never normal. Even a small Land Rover oil leak can cause severe damage if ignored, leaving you with expensive repair bills.
At South Coast Garage, Eastbourne, our team of Land Rover-trained technicians diagnose and repair oil leaks using genuine components, manufacturer-approved fluids, and main-dealer diagnostic systems. You’ll receive precision workmanship backed by transparent, friendly servicing and repairs.
Why drivers choose South Coast Garage:
Here are some of the reasons Land Rover drivers across Eastbourne, Brighton, East Sussex and the surrounding areas trust us for dependable, professional repairs:
- 12-month parts and labour guarantee.
- Courtesy cars and collection options available.
- Land Rover-trained technicians with dealer-level diagnostic tools.
- Genuine parts and fluids to maintain manufacturer standards.
Join the {{review-count}} customers who’ve rated us {{average-rating}} stars for expertise and care.
Whether it’s a car leaking oil, routine maintenance, or an advanced Land Rover repair, trust South Coast Garage, Eastbourne for results that last.
Call our experts on 01323 734473 today to arrange your Land Rover service.
