FTO Oil Leak

[Graham]

Hi,
I have just had a RAC inspection completed on a 1996 FTO GPX. The engineer reports that there is a thin bit of oil on the underside of the engine.
Should I steer real clear of this vehicle?
Many thanks for your help,

Graham

[CJ]

I have just had a RAC inspection completed on a 1996 FTO GPX. The engineer reports that there is a thin bit of oil on the underside of the engine. Should I steer real clear of this vehicle?

Its hard to know Graham, for whats its worth, I've have a minor oil leak at the back of the engine for a while now (common problem on the GPX apparently), the mechanic says its a plastic gasket at the back of the cambox (his words, not mine). It might also be a leaky rocker cover gasket which is easily fixed or you might just need a new sump plug washer. To be honest, the RAC guy should have spent a bit more time looking at it (up on a ramp if possible) with a view to telling where exactly the leak is coming from, you'd be able to make a more informed decision if you knew what work needs to be carried out.

CJ

[Graham]

Hi CJ, thanks for your prompt response.

The Essentials Plus RAC check was carried out today on the Owners driveway. Unfortunately this meant that the check was limited to using jacks.
http://www.rac.co.uk/carbuying/examinat ... tials_plus
The engineer said the engine would need to be cleaned and put on ramps for the source to be identified.

Do know of any references for gpx oil leaks online?

What am I looking at in terms of costs? Worst case scenarios etc?
With the exception of the oil leak and in need cambelt change (due to milage- currently 56k) and wiper change the car is in pristine condition. "Owners words verified by RAC engineer"


Best regards,

Graham

[Keith]

I have got 2 oil leaks, the stains on the sides of the engine always look fresh but my oil level rarely drops. Haven't needed to touch it since it was changed 8 months ago. Actually, Is that an NCT failure?

[Myfeckin FTO]

I have got 2 oil leaks, the stains on the sides of the engine always look fresh but my oil level rarely drops. Haven't needed to touch it since it was changed 8 months ago. Actually, Is that an NCT failure?

Are you sure its engine oil - Have you checked other fluids such as power steering levels?

[Keith]

Yeah, Paul Nolan checked it, he said it was from the seal where you would usually have a head gasket, both sides. He said it wasn't major but he could do it if i wanted. Other than that the car is running like a dream, just had the alignment done by Dave McCann. Feels great now