Quick Fix for Honda Prelude Oil Leak

Do you have a Honda Prelude with an H22 engine that appears to be leaking oil from somewhere just above the oil filter? Then this article is for you. A lady at my job had this very problem and paid $90. to have the repair done professionally. If you're handy with tools or willing to take your time and learn you can save quite a few bucks. The job isn't much harder than changing your oil filter. Read the following instructions all the way through before attempting this task to help you get organized. A helper can be handy for passing tools for extra safety. Expect to get dirty. If you don't have your own tools you can rent them at an auto parts shop like AutoZone or O'Rilley Auto Parts for a small deposit. You'll get your money back when you return the tools.

With many Honda Preludes, an oil leak just above the oil filter is the result of the oil cooler o-ring deteriorating. Before you start work, you will need to place jack stands under your vehicle to safely hold it up so you can access the oil filter. Never rely on a jack alone to hold up your car because it can fail unexpectedly, allowing your vehicle to fall and possibly crush you. Remove the oil filter by twisting it counterclockwise. Have a suitable open top container ready to catch dripping oil. Old newspaper spread under the car will make cleanup easier.

Once the oil filter is removed you'll see a large nut at the base of the treaded tube that once held the oil filter. This is called the oil filter stud. Using a 30 mm socket with a long handled wrench for leverage, unscrew the stud. Now with the oil filter stud removed you should be able to pull off the oil cooler which is the round metal part that looks like a fat donut with two hoses attached. Do not remove the hoses, just wiggle the part around until you can see and remove the old o-ring, otherwise known as a seal. If it is broken, be sure to remove all of the pieces. Next apply a little bit of grease to your new o-ring to help it stick in the groove on the oil cooler. Put the oil cooler back in the original position and put the oil filter stud back in place and tighten it until snug. Next replace the oil filter (use a new one if it hasn't been changed recently) then wipe or wash away any oil residue so you'll notice any new leaks. Check your oil level and add oil as needed. Don't forget to remove the jack stands! Start the car and watch for leaking oil. No leaks means you're done!