Weird Oil Leak

[e53 guy]

Ok guys have a odd one here, I have a 2006 e53 with about 130k on it. Recently it starting leaking oil buy the cup full, however it only is doing it occasionally. I took the plates off cleaned it up and can't really see any trouble area. I sat it on fresh cardboard for two days in the garage but not a drop. I have oil spots all over my driveway from when it happens, any ideas?

[andrewwynn]

Usually the OFHG or the seal around the filler.

Cold ambient temps made mine worse.

[X5chemist]

Check near the A/C compressor area. The corner is notorious for an oil pan leak. Same for oil dipstick area.

Likely power steering fluid. Check the return hose. The OEM clamp will not hold on old brittle hoses. Check under the reservoir.

[e53 guy]

Pretty sure it is motor oil, I will check the power steering fluid shortly but as much as has been leeking it would probably be empty.

[e53 guy]

its motor oil, reservoir is still full. hasnt leaked in two days now

[X5chemist]

Turn it on. How tight is the oil filter cap? BTW - which motor?

[e53 guy]

Double checked the filter cap its tight and it doesnt look like it is coming from there at this point. 3.0 When it does leak it seems to leak the same amount each time or close to it, it isnt a continuous leak.

[Bdc101]

Are you sure it's not just pooling up on the stiffener plate and then dripping out of there when enough pools up in there?

[e53 guy]

Actually I didnt think of that, very good point! I have the plastic plate off now and the stiffener back on since you cant drive without it. I did clean it very good. I guees I will just have to monitor it and see.

[andrewwynn]

Originally Posted by Bdc101

Are you sure it's not just pooling up on the stiffener plate and then dripping out of there when enough pools up in there?

This is almost always why there's a surge. It's hard to see the OFHG leak but if oil is on the front of engine above the water pump it's most likely OFHG (also it's a very common leak).