So my Altima is leaking oil, I'm pretty sure it's not the oil pan (the oil pan gasket might leak but there is def. a leak above it) and I know it's not the valve cover. What's left? It might be the crankshaft front seal. It's coming out just over the oil pan on the passenger side. Is there a rear main that would leak in that area or would that be coming out somewhere else.

The other problem is the CV boot on the same side it torn, there's no clicking yet so I assume the joint is still ok so the question is, is it worth rebooting the joint or should I just go get a new shaft?

5/21/2007 9:01:43 PM

if it's coming from the front of the motor, could be a few things. front main seal, oil pump, cam seal, or even the front of the valve cover and it's leaking down behind the timing cover.

as for the cv, if it's not clicking yet get one of those repair boot deals or tape the existing split up with duct tape. cram as much bearing grease in there as you can first. should live a while longer. not worth the trouble of replacing the shaft or putting on a new "real" boot.

5/21/2007 9:13:39 PM

Thanks. I know I'm going to have to get in there to figure out where the problem is. The shop I took it to insisted that the timing chain had to come off in order to fix a front main seal or cam seal and advised me to shell out the extra to have it replaced ($2600-$2800). I didn't buy it, they also told me would last a week before blowing out and draining the oil (this has been going on a while, it's just got to the point I'm tired of leaking oil).

5/21/2007 10:02:28 PM

they would be correct, at least partially. it does need to come off, and actually would be a very good idea to replace the timing set while you're in there. replace the oil and water pumps also.

the seal lasting another week then blowing out and draining all oil is false. possible, but not likely at all.


[Edited on May 21, 2007 at 10:10 PM. Reason : pumps]

5/21/2007 10:09:24 PM