Oil Pan Gasket
A seal compressed between the bottom of the engine block and the oil pan to contain the engine's oil reservoir.
The oil pan gasket sits at the very bottom of the engine, sealing the interface between the metal engine block and the oil pan (oil sump) that holds the engine's oil supply. Like other engine gaskets, it must withstand constant temperature fluctuations, vibration, and continuous immersion in engine oil.
Gaskets can be made of molded rubber, cork, or liquid RTV silicone sealant. Over time, the gasket material degrades or shrinks, resulting in slow oil leaks that leave puddles under the vehicle.
Replacing an oil pan gasket requires draining the engine oil, removing the oil pan bolts, and cleaning the surfaces. In some vehicles, accessing the oil pan requires lifting the engine or lowering the front subframe, making it a labor-intensive repair.