Renault Clio, gasoline aroma in oil

[felix_okaforp]

My clio just got its oil changed. The floor has oil stains, which I discovered a few days ago. When I opened the hood today, I saw oil pooling around the gas cap. I cleaned up the spilled oil since I was worried the mechanical may have spilt any while adding more oil; I also checked the bottom pan, but it seemed to be empty.

The next thing to do was to check the oil level. Again, it's possible the mechanic just filled it up a bit too high, but the oil level seemed perfect.


It smelled like gasoline and was quite runny, two things I noticed. I had evidently given it 30 minutes to idle before checking the oil level.

I am leaving on Tuesday, but I am beginning to wonder if I should even drive the car because I am worried it has a major problem.

[audrey.wangfz]

Do you happen to have an engine?

[felix_okaforp]

It is a 1.2L 16V

[emmatorrescj]

If there is fuel in the oil, it's likely because of a leaking injector or worn piston rings. Still, you might experience harsh idle and starting problems, particularly first thing in the morning, if this were to happen. The presence of oil around the engine's top indicates that there is pressure within the crankcase, which brings us back to the piston rings. I have no idea how far you intend to go, but as long as the engine is functioning properly at the moment, it should be OK. However, gasoline is diluting the engine oil, which is clearly not ideal for extended road trips.