How bad is this oil leak?

[Michigan]

I just got this truck less than a week ago and noticed an oil leak after sitting overnight.

I guess you would consider it a "minor" oil leak. I don't like leaks at all, I guess who would. Lol

It is definitely a bummer since I asked the seller if it had any leaks and he claimed no, that it sits in his garage and never leaks. When I looked underneath before buying it, I checked by the oil plug and I think that's the rear main seal location and it was dry so maybe he possibly wiped it down because now it shows a little witness. I will have to take pics. So I don't know if it's rear main seal or oil pan or other?

I had the same Tahoe last year that had a minor rear main seal leak and took it to a couple shops at the time and was told it was nothing to really worry about. I still don't like the fact of knowing my truck is leaking and on the driveway.

These pictures are over a 24 hour sitting. It's definitely dripping but not a puddle for sure. By looking at pics, do you think it's enough to effect the oil levels over time? Will I need to be refilling from the leak.

What problems can an oil leak cause and should I do anything about it or is it very minor and ok?

Also it looks like there is spots in different locations on the ground if you look at the last pic. Disregard the spot at the top because that was already there. Maybe I will have to lay down some cardboard and let sit overnight and report back

 

[Rocket Man]

The amount for 24 hours isn't enough to worry about other than it leaves a mess. You should keep an eye on your oil level anyway and will probably add a bit between changes. Oil leaks can be a challenge to locate. Good luck, hope it's not the rear main because in order to fix it you have to pull the trans which you probably know. The oil pan on a 2wd is pretty easy.

 

[PG01]

Bad, junk it... but light it on fire first...

 

[HiHoeSilver]

Don't get ahead of yourself. Put some cardboard down and be methodical for a few days and try to find it.

 

[PG01]

Don't get ahead of yourself. Put some cardboard down and be methodical for a few days and try to find it.

I still say burn it

 

[M1Gunner]

I'd start with the PCV system. Check to make sure it has proper flow. Restricted or kinked pcv hose or engine vent hose, damaged, incorrect or incorrectly installed pcv hose. All the above will cause excessive crankcase pressure, resulting in an external oil leak.
You'd be surprised that IF a restricted PCV system is repaired, seals will actually still begin to do their job again.


But I also like @Galante 's response, just burn that mother down!

 

[Michigan]

Bad, junk it... but light it on fire first...

I would but she's too pretty to do that. Lol

 

[corvette744]

Put some oil dye in it drive it for a week and black light it then you will know for sure were its coming from.

 

[Chubbs]

I hate to say it but that leak will definitely cause a drop in the overall oil level.

I've seen plenty of leaks that weren't even bad enough to hit the ground and required the addition of couple+ ounces bi-weekly.

The oil leaks even more as you are driving the vehicle, it is @ operating temp. and the viscosity decreases; you have no idea to the loss at this time since it just blows off. Until you locate the source and repair its worth checking the dipstick twice a week to get an idea of how much and how fast the level drops but it's a new acquisition so we know you will be thorough in its upkeep.

 

[Cajunrob]

Have a 96 Tahoe with 269,000 miles and a 2001 with 120,000 miles . The 01 leaks oil from the rear main seal. I just keep adding oil.