Petrol and diesel car owners risk £2,000 engine repair cost as mechanic urges Britons to take 'first step'

While oil leaks can be a common problem, especially in older vehicles, they can lead to serious mechanical damage if they are not treated.

Despite this, expert mechanics are calling on drivers to resolve the minor leaks by using a "re-sealing additive", which can be found at most motoring shops.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

A spokesperson for Bumper said additives, which are used by many drivers, are designed to rejuvenate worn rubber seals. These often cause small oil leaks.

They noted that these products can be added directly to the engine oil, transmission fluid, or power steering system to avoid more expensive repairs.

The expert said: "While these additives aren’t suitable for major mechanical failures or damaged metal components, they can be a helpful first step for drivers noticing small leaks from seals or gaskets."

Additives normally cost around £25 and condition rubber components to stop leaks when seals harden and shrink over time.

However, drivers are always urged to read the labels of whatever product they are looking to buy and consider seeking advice before using it.

Drivers could check their vehicle's manual or contact their manufacturer to see if certain additives are safe for their cars.

The spokesperson said: "It's important to understand that these products work best for minor leaks.

"If the leak is more serious or coming from a critical component like a cracked head gasket, professional mechanical repair will still be necessary."

According to Bumper, oil leak repair costs usually range between £75 and £500, although drivers could be slapped with a £2,000 bill to repair a rear main seal leak.

Drivers should not use the additives as a replacement for regular servicing or proper mechanical repairs.

The expert suggested that the additives act as an affordable way to maintain a vehicle and avoid unnecessary costs if they do experience a leak.

Many already use additives to ensure their fuel system works as efficiently as possible, although this will not remove the problem entirely.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• Millions of cars could disappear from roads as 'keyless generation' of drivers avoid buying vehicles
• China could 'turn off Britain's traffic lights and immobilise cars', former head of MI6 tells MPs
• Electric bike warning issued as faulty batteries could lead to huge fires - 'New laws are urgently needed'

If drivers are experiencing repeated fluid loss, a drop in engine performance or visible puddles beneath their cars, they should have it professionally inspected.