What could cause oil residue on top of engine?

[UDCentaur]

21 -CX-9 AWD Looking to replace spark plugs - I was taking off the cover and found this oil residue around the passenger side spark plug area. I’m no mechanic but even if they splashed a little oil in the fill - how did it creep uphill and that far over to the passenger side?

Is there another leak?

Through warranty- Mazda did all the servicing. Last service we service at a local mechanic shop (trustworthy) but they did use an aftermarket (Carquest) oil filter. We did have the dreaded low oil light come on so I added some oil. We are right at 6000 miles for an oil change so it’s going in this week. I know the valve stem leak - so that may come up but I’m sure Mazda will blame the aftermarket oil filter. Thoughts?

 

[Lazy2.5]

6000 miles is late for an oil change.

It appears that the oil is coming from your Oil Control Valve Gasket.

Check your valve cover gasket as well to make sure there is no oil coming from there as well.

Unless the oil is spilling down all over the engine, there is no way you could have lost an entire quart from that much oil residue seen in the pic. You are likely burning some oil as well.

 

[Mazdiod2]

there's a good picture of the oil control valve here...

B

Thread 'Oil spotted on top of engine...'

Nov 17, 2024

Hi,
When I removed my engine cover, I saw this part with oil. I would imagine this is not normal. I remember seeing this part here before but I cannot find it anymore. What do you call this part, and what do I need to do to stop the oil leak?

• bluefire_xl
• Replies: 6
• Forum: CX-5 Powertrain