1998 (3.8 liter engine) Oil leak

My 1998 Intrigue is leaking oil on the floor. I am only loosing about 1/2 qt every oil change (4k).

It is difficult to pinpoint the exact source, but looks like some may be from valve cover gasket? Planning to start there - any other areas to look?

It's the valve covers.

Mine has the same issue. Occasionally it will drip a drop of oil on the exhaust manifold and you'll see a puff of smoke from under the hood.

I have replacement v/c gaskets but have not tackled the job yet.

The most common source for oil leaks is the valve cover gaskets and the cover bolt grommets. So make sure you get a repair kit that has both V/C gaskets and the 12 grommets (6 per valve cover). See first pic below. This is the Duralast brand made by Felpro for Autozone. The gaskets flatten out over a period of time regardless of proper bolt torque which is 89 in-lbs causing the leaking mainly during braking activity and there is poor oil drainback based on the head design. See second pic. It is a known engine fire hazard source so don't waste any time getting the issue corrected. Not a difficult DIY job.

Another source for leaking is the oil pan gasket but that is not easy to replace due to the engine/tranny cradle (subframe).

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC09252.jpg


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC09261.jpg

Oil pan gasket/rear main is another common source. The engine oil pressure switches also leak sometimes.

rear main is another common source.

The rear main seal is a potential problem area on a SII 3800 engine but not really that common as most think or claim. Same is applicable to the crank/harmonic balancer seal on the timing chain cover. Best to remove the plastic access cover at the bellhousing and starter and do a closer inspection. Last one I thought was leaking was actually the oil pan seal since at least three of the oil pan bolts and part of the seal is covered by the plastic cover. Just two 10mm bolts hold it on. Also, oil leaking out of the front valve cover will drip down to the starter area making it look like a rear main seal. It is best to do a detailed inspection with a good lighting source by jacking it up or put it on a lift after spraying all the old oil and crud away. I use engine degreaser and a high pressure spray wand at a self-service car wash just to be sure and to help identify the source of the leaking.