Oil Spills: NTK warns of mechanical risk and environmental challenge in cities

São Paulo, April 2025 - One of the most recurrent problems in vehicles is oil leakage. The loss of engine fluids, Brake, of the transmission and power steering system or the differential pose risks to vehicle safety and a serious environmental challenge.

Caused by problems in the reservoirs, piping or other components of the systems, Leaks contaminate the soil (and potentially groundwater), in addition to emitting toxic and flammable vapors when in contact with heated parts such as the engine. In urban centers, where it is common for vehicles to remain parked on public roads or rotating spaces, Leak detection is made difficult, which exacerbates the potential environmental impact.

In order to collaborate with the preservation of the environment and avoid inconvenience to drivers, The NAT, brand of Niterra, Japanese multinational also responsible for NGK and reference in components for ignition systems, Alerts about the main causes of oil spills and tips to prevent them:

1- Natural wear and tear of components: Continuous use causes larger gaps between parts, Facilitating leaks.

2- Risks, grooves or imperfections on the contact surfaces: irregularities in the sealing areas prevent perfect sealing, allowing the passage of fluid.

3- Drying of sealants and gaskets: The action of time and heat causes rubbers to lose elasticity, reducing sealing capacity.

4- Increased pressure: excessive pressures force systems beyond what is designed, causing seals and connections to fail.

5- Use of inappropriate fluid: Incorrect fluids can react with internal materials and compromise the seal, That is why it is essential to check the indications of the automakers.

6- Physical damage to the reservoir and lids: knocks or cracks create openings through which fluid can escape.

7- Hose Problems, Fittings and Pipes: Cracks, Loosening or poorly made fittings at these points impair the tightness of the system.

"The best way to avoid problems and reduce maintenance costs is to keep the preventive maintenance plan up to date. It considers the service life of the components, based on mileage or time of use, and provides for the scheduled replacement of parts. Follow the automaker's recommendations, including the use of correct lubricants, It also contributes to more reliable performance", afirma Hiromori Mori, Niterra Technical Assistance Consultant.

Relationship between oil leaks and the pressure light on the dashboard

The oil pressure switch is key, for detecting drops in pressure and triggering the warning light on the dashboard. Nonetheless, if it is damaged or obstructed, The switch may fail to signal the problem, making it difficult to make an accurate and early diagnosis.

"There are several reasons that can justify the malfunction of the oil pressure switch, Like leaking through the body, Clogging by metal residue or sludge due to lack of maintenance, damage to the membrane caused by dirt in the oil or use of additives, in addition to cleaning attempts. Failures can also occur due to engine clearances, Low oil, contamination or use of lubricant with inadequate viscosity", alert Mori. "Some attitudes, How to check the level and condition of the lubricating oil, identify potential external leaks, Observing the presence of contamination and checking the pressure of the engine's lubrication system can be fundamental for diagnosing problems in the component.

In situations like this, It is necessary to carry out a thorough analysis: Check the lubricating oil level, visually inspect for possible external leaks, analyze the condition of the oil for contamination and perform specific lubrication pressure tests, According to the manufacturer's procedures. If a component change is required, Niterra makes pressure switches available to the automotive aftermarket through its brand, NTK.