Problems in the cold...

We have very cold temperature here this week, reaching -30C. Here's what happend...

On the first cold morning, the temp outside was -27C. I plugged the block heater for about 2 hours before I would go. Even with that, the engine got some difficulties to start. It made some strange noises and then it started squeeling for about 2 minutes. This squeeling sound is always there when I start the car in temperatures below -15C. But this time, something must have happen cause the check engine light is on.

The next morning (temp is now -25C), I thought I should not plug the block heater after what happend. Guess what, the engine refused to start and the battery eventually died.

I opened the hood to boost the battery and saw some oil leaking near the filter. I took some pictures:

http://pages.videotron.com/sibistie/1.jpg
http://pages.videotron.com/sibistie/2.jpg
http://pages.videotron.com/sibistie/3.jpg

What do you think? Is this a major problem or not? Could synthetic oil solve this problem? I need some point of views...

I wouldn't ever say that an oil leak is "normal." I get the squealing too, briefly. I use synthetic oil and have for many years. Here in MN it is a good idea to do so. I don't have block heaters since the dealers want too much for them.

what kind of oil a wate you using in this is it 5-30 or higher? and what do you have your antifrezze setting at when you checked it with anti checker?