Oil leaks are among the most frustrating maintenance issues car owners face. A persistent leak can stain driveways, trigger warning lights, and lead to costly engine repairs if left unchecked.
While many vehicles are prone to this issue as they age, others have earned a reputation for being impressively resistant to oil leakage.
Below are five vehicles known for their legendary oil leak resistance—and five that, unfortunately, are infamous for leaking like a sieve.
Vehicles With Legendary Oil Leak Resistance
These models have earned reputations for their rock-solid reliability and tight engine seals, rarely suffering from the oil seepage issues that plague less robust designs.
In this article, we spotlight the vehicles that are celebrated for their legendary resistance to oil leaks—machines that keep their fluids where they belong, mile after mile.
1. Toyota 4Runner (4th and 5th Generations)
Built with Toyota’s signature engineering reliability, the 4Runner is known for its bulletproof V6 and V8 engines.
Whether it’s the 4.0-liter V6 or the 4.7-liter V8, these powertrains are exceptionally durable and rarely develop oil leaks, even after 200,000 miles. Meticulous design and high-quality gaskets contribute to its clean engine longevity.
Toyota unveiled the sixth generation of the 4Runner in spring 2024, bringing an end to the previous model’s 15-year run and marking a major turning point in the vehicle’s history.
Originally introduced in 1983 for the 1984 model year, the 4Runner had already surpassed 4 million units sold by the time the sixth generation arrived. By 2024, the nameplate had become one of Toyota’s most iconic. This SUV served a wide range of purposes—from daily commuting and school drop-offs to outdoor adventures in remote areas.
Its proven off-road capabilities, including rock crawling and resilience in extreme conditions, made it a favorite in the off-road community. For the 2025 model year, the 4Runner arrived with contemporary styling, a refined interior, fuel-efficient powertrains, and cutting-edge technology.
It was redesigned from the ground up, now riding on the TNGA-F platform shared with other Toyota models like the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia.
Toyota’s designers stayed true to the spirit of the original 4Runner while giving it a modern interpretation. The front end featured horizontal LED headlights with raised edges and integrated daytime running lights.
These lights flanked a sharply styled main grille, which either displayed the Toyota name or the automaker’s chromed emblem, depending on trim. Below, the bumper incorporated a wide lower air intake, protected by a rock slider shield and a skid plate-style apron.
Viewed from the side, the SUV exuded toughness with its angular flared wheel arches. The TRD Pro variant included extra black plastic cladding for added protection. Depending on the version, the 2025 4Runner came with either black or body-colored mirror caps and door handles. Sculpted side doors were matched with side steps along the sills.
At the rear, the SUV’s higher-set shoulders paid homage to the first-generation 4Runner. A unique styling detail was the C-pillar, which leaned forward just behind the rear doors. The rear window remained functional, able to roll down into the tailgate just like in previous generations.
Inside, the 4Runner offered a fresh, modernized cabin. At the top of the center stack was an infotainment screen—either eight or ten inches, depending on trim.
In front of the driver sat a digital instrument cluster, with base models offering a seven-inch display and upper trims receiving a 12.3-inch unit. The four-spoke steering wheel resembled the one found in the outgoing generation.
Between the front seats, the center console housed key controls for the transmission, available 4×4 system, and dual cup holders. Seating varied by trim, with base versions featuring fabric-wrapped bucket seats, and premium models offering combinations of Alcantara and synthetic leather. In the rear, Toyota installed a 60/40 split-folding bench seat.
Toyota prioritized safety by including the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite as standard. This system came with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, and more.
Under the hood, the latest 4Runner came equipped with a turbocharged inline-four engine, which was available either as a standalone gas unit or with a hybrid setup. Buyers had the option of three drivetrains: rear-wheel drive, an all-wheel-drive system, or a more rugged part-time four-wheel drive.
Toyota unveiled the sixth generation of the 4Runner in spring 2024, bringing an end to the previous model’s 15-year run and marking a major turning point in the vehicle’s history.
Originally introduced in 1983 for the 1984 model year, the 4Runner had already surpassed 4 million units sold by the time the sixth generation arrived. By 2024, the nameplate had become one of Toyota’s most iconic.
This SUV served a wide range of purposes—from daily commuting and school drop-offs to outdoor adventures in remote areas. Its proven off-road capabilities, including rock crawling and resilience in extreme conditions, made it a favorite in the off-road community.
For the 2025 model year, the 4Runner arrived with contemporary styling, a refined interior, fuel-efficient powertrains, and cutting-edge technology.
It was redesigned from the ground up, now riding on the TNGA-F platform shared with other Toyota models like the Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia.
Toyota’s designers stayed true to the spirit of the original 4Runner while giving it a modern interpretation. The front end featured horizontal LED headlights with raised edges and integrated daytime running lights.
These lights flanked a sharply styled main grille, which either displayed the Toyota name or the automaker’s chromed emblem, depending on trim. Below, the bumper incorporated a wide lower air intake, protected by a rock slider shield and a skid plate-style apron.
Viewed from the side, the SUV exuded toughness with its angular flared wheel arches. The TRD Pro variant included extra black plastic cladding for added protection. Depending on the version, the 2025 4Runner came with either black or body-colored mirror caps and door handles.
Sculpted side doors were matched with side steps along the sills. At the rear, the SUV’s higher-set shoulders paid homage to the first-generation 4Runner.
A unique styling detail was the C-pillar, which leaned forward just behind the rear doors. The rear window remained functional, able to roll down into the tailgate just like in previous generations.
Inside, the 4Runner offered a fresh, modernized cabin. At the top of the center stack was an infotainment screen—either eight or ten inches, depending on trim. In front of the driver sat a digital instrument cluster, with base models offering a seven-inch display and upper trims receiving a 12.3-inch unit.
The four-spoke steering wheel resembled the one found in the outgoing generation. Between the front seats, the center console housed key controls for the transmission, available 4×4 system, and dual cup holders.
Seating varied by trim, with base versions featuring fabric-wrapped bucket seats, and premium models offering combinations of Alcantara and synthetic leather. In the rear, Toyota installed a 60/40 split-folding bench seat.
Toyota prioritized safety by including the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite as standard. This system came with lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, and more.
Under the hood, the latest 4Runner came equipped with a turbocharged inline-four engine, which was available either as a standalone gas unit or with a hybrid setup.
Buyers had the option of three drivetrains: rear-wheel drive, an all-wheel-drive system, or a more rugged part-time four-wheel drive.
2. Honda Accord (2003–2012)
This generation of the Accord—especially models equipped with the K-series 4-cylinder engines—offers strong resistance to oil leaks.
With proper maintenance, these engines can last well over 250,000 miles without showing signs of gasket deterioration or valve cover issues. Honda’s precision in engine manufacturing truly shines here.
Despite receiving a refresh for the 2011 model year, the Honda Accord’s sales have seen a recent decline. Certainly, part of the downturn can be attributed to the devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in March of 2011.
However, another significant factor is the increasingly fierce competition in the midsize sedan segment. Whether or not sales are strong, the Accord remains a solid option for the average American family.
That said, not much has changed with the 2012 Honda Accord, which is largely a carryover from the 2011 model. The only notable update for 2012 is the addition of a USB audio interface, now available across the entire lineup.
One of the Accord’s strong suits is the range of choices it offers buyers. The vehicle is available in numerous trim levels, each with varying degrees of standard and optional comfort and safety features.
Pricing spans a wide range—from the low $20,000s to the low $30,000s. Both coupe and sedan versions are offered, each with two variants of Honda’s 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing either 177 horsepower or 190 horsepower.
The 177-horsepower version earns a respectable 34 mpg on the highway. In addition, there is one available V-6 engine option: a 3.5-liter unit that delivers 271 horsepower. All engines are paired with either a 5-speed manual or automatic transmission, with a 6-speed manual reserved exclusively for the V-6 coupe.
Though it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S., there is always room for refinement in the highly competitive midsize sedan class where the Accord competes. The significant 2011 redesign brought enhancements to exterior styling, interior materials, and fuel economy.
However, Honda has yet to replace the Accord’s somewhat dated five-speed manual transmission. Most of its competitors—including its longtime rival, the Toyota Camry—now offer more modern 6-speed automatics or continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).
Additionally, we’ve observed that the Accord’s ride is not as smooth or quiet as that of some competitors. Still, the Accord continues to shine with its light, responsive, and composed handling—one of its most consistently praised strengths.
3. Lexus LS 430 (2001–2006)
The LS 430 is a luxury sedan that exemplifies Japanese reliability. Its 4.3-liter V8 engine is renowned not just for smoothness and longevity but also for staying clean under the hood.
It’s common to find these sedans with high mileage and bone-dry engine bays—thanks in large part to high-grade materials and tight engineering tolerances.
Japan has mastered the art of automotive refinement, a fact clearly demonstrated in the redesign of the 2001 Lexus LS 430, which keeps this flagship sedan aligned with the fast-evolving premium luxury segment.
For 2001, the LS 430 is powered by a new 4.3-liter engine that maintains the previous model’s 290 horsepower rating but adds 20 foot-pounds of torque, bringing the total to 320.
The inclusion of Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) eliminates the traditional trade-off between high-rpm horsepower and low-end torque by continuously optimizing valve overlap across the entire rev range.
This updated engine is paired with a computer-controlled five-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. Lexus reports a zero-to-60 mph time of 6.3 seconds.
Making its debut on the 2001 LS 430 is the industry’s first “torque-activated” powertrain control system, which increases throttle opening in situations like uphill driving to deliver more power—without the driver needing to adjust the throttle pedal.
Although the new LS 430 maintains the familiar Lexus design language, its body takes on a more distinctly Teutonic silhouette, drawing comparisons from our staff to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan.
The car’s newly sculpted, more aerodynamic shape was developed in the same wind tunnel used for Japan’s bullet trains.
When equipped with the optional Air Suspension, it achieves an ultra-low coefficient of drag (CD) of 0.25—the lowest of any current passenger sedan.
The wheelbase has been extended by 3 inches, even though the overall length remains unchanged. When compared to the S-Class, the LS 430 delivers greater interior cabin space and a larger trunk.
4. Subaru Outback (2020–Present, Turbo Models)
While older Subarus were notorious for head gasket failures and oil leaks, the newer turbocharged engines—like the 2.4-liter in the current Outback—have dramatically improved.
Subaru resolved many of its prior sealing issues, and these newer models offer an impressive track record when it comes to leak prevention.
The 2020 Outback lineup includes two flat-four-cylinder engines: a standard 182-hp 2.5-liter and an optional 260-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter.
Both engines are paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that simulates an eight-speed gearbox to reduce the usual droning noise associated with CVTs.
All Outback models come with Subaru’s signature all-wheel-drive system, with the exception of the rear-wheel-drive BRZ coupe. The base powertrain delivers modest performance; in our tests, acceleration was underwhelming and the transmission lacked responsiveness.
While the turbocharged engine significantly improved speed, it suffered from the same sluggish CVT behavior. Still, most Outback buyers prioritize ride comfort and moderate off-road utility over outright performance.
5. Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND Generation, 2016–Present)
The ND Miata’s 2.0-liter SkyActiv engine is a masterclass in efficiency and design.
Not only does it deliver responsive power and fuel efficiency, but it’s also one of the cleanest, most oil-tight engines in its class. Owners frequently report zero leaks even at higher mileage intervals—no small feat for a lightweight sports car.
Mazda has spent over thirty years refining the Miata, and the end result is an affordable sports car that feels like a well-crafted jewel. Available as a traditional soft-top roadster or as the RF (retractable fastback) with a power-operated targa-style roof, the Miata delivers a consistent set of strengths—and a few limitations.
Its 181-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine thrives at high revs and is most rewarding when paired with the slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, though an automatic is offered for those who prefer it.
The steering is sharp and communicative, working in harmony with the nimble chassis to provide a lively, engaging drive. However, it doesn’t offer the smoothest ride over rough or broken pavement. Inside, the cabin is attractively trimmed, but space is limited—especially for taller occupants.
Storage options are scarce, and the trunk is quite small, making the Miata less practical for extended road trips with two people. Still, its true calling lies elsewhere: aim it at a winding road, lower the roof, and enjoy the undiluted thrill that defines the classic sports car experience.
Vehicles That Leak Like a Sieve
Whether it’s due to poor gasket design, aging seals, or just subpar engineering, certain vehicles have earned a reputation for being especially leaky.
In this article, we’ll highlight the cars, trucks, and SUVs that are notorious for leaking like a sieve—so you know what to watch out for if you’re buying used or dealing with repeat repair bills.
1. BMW 3 Series (E90, 2006–2011)
Despite its engaging drive and upscale interior, the E90 generation of the BMW 3 Series is plagued by oil leaks. Valve cover gaskets, oil filter housing gaskets, and even the oil pan gasket are common failure points.
Owners often find themselves topping off oil far too frequently—especially around the 100,000-mile mark. In 2005, the fourth generation of BMW cars, known as the E46, was succeeded by the next generation of the 3 Series, designated as the BMW 3 Series E90.
Compared to the E46, the new model grew in size, with dimensions reaching 4520 mm in length and 1817 mm in width. The height of the car was 1420 mm, the wheelbase measured 2760 mm, and the ground clearance ranged from 125 to 144 mm, depending on the specific modification.
These measurements apply to the sedan version; dimensions for the station wagon and other body types vary slightly. BMW 3 Series E90 vehicles were also manufactured in the Russian city of Kaliningrad.
While the specifications of these “Russian Germans” were slightly less extensive than those of the “German Germans,” the build quality remained consistent.
It’s worth noting that only four models were produced domestically: the 318, 320, 325i, and 325xi. The first three variants featured rear-wheel drive, while the 325xi was equipped with all-wheel drive.
Also Read: Top 10 Most Reliable Used Cars You Can Buy for Under $10,000 in 2025
2. Jeep Grand Cherokee (1999–2004, 4.7L V8)
This generation of the Grand Cherokee is well-known for its problematic 4.7-liter V8 engine. One of the more common complaints?
Persistent oil leaks from the rear main seal and valve covers. Repairs can be labor-intensive, and many owners choose to live with the drip rather than deal with the cost.
The Chrysler PowerTech 4.7 L (also referred to as the Dodge 4.7L Magnum) is a naturally aspirated 4.7-liter (4,701 cc, 287.0 cu.in.) 90° V8 four-stroke gasoline engine produced by Chrysler in Detroit, Michigan, USA, from 1999 through 2013.
The PowerTech 4.7 L engine is built with a cast-iron block and two aluminum cylinder heads. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) configuration and utilizes two valves per cylinder, for a total of 16 valves.
The Chrysler 4.7L PowerTech/Magnum engine incorporates a sequential multiport fuel injection system and an electronic ignition setup, with individual ignition coils for each cylinder.
The engine’s compression ratio is rated at 9.0:1 in standard form, 9.7:1 for the HO (High-Output) version, and increased to 9.8:1 after 2008. The bore measures 93.0 mm (3.66 in), while the stroke is 86.5 mm (3.41 in).
The standard version of the engine delivers 238 PS (175 kW; 235 HP) at 4,800 rpm and a peak torque of 400 N·m (40.8 kg·m; 294.8 ft·lb) at 3,200 rpm.
In 2002, Chrysler released a “High-Output” version of the 4.7L PowerTech engine. This enhanced variant produced 269 PS (198 kW; 265 HP) at 4,800 rpm and 447 N·m (45.59 kg·m; 329.89 ft·lb) of maximum torque at 3,200 rpm. It came standard on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland and was offered as an optional engine on the Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited.
The 4.7L V8 HO version featured high-compression domed pistons with a 9.7:1 compression ratio, upgraded camshafts, a tuned intake system, and was equipped with two knock sensors.
3. Mini Cooper (2007–2013)
Under BMW ownership, this generation of Mini Cooper adopted several of its parent company’s engine quirks—including oil leak issues.
Timing cover and valve cover gaskets degrade quickly, sometimes before 60,000 miles. Oil leaks in these vehicles can also lead to secondary issues like degraded engine mounts and electrical malfunctions.
Since the hatchback is completely redesigned for this year, while the convertible carries over from the previous generation, the 2007 front-wheel-drive Mini Cooper lineup offers four different engine configurations. Powering the base Cooper hatchback is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 118 horsepower.
The base Cooper convertible, on the other hand, features a different 1.6-liter engine rated at 115 horsepower. The base hatchback is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is available as an option.
In contrast, the base convertible comes standard with a five-speed manual gearbox, and offers a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) as an optional upgrade.
The sportier Mini Cooper S hatchback is fitted with a turbocharged version of the new 1.6-liter engine, which delivers 172 horsepower and 191 lb-ft of torque.
Meanwhile, the Cooper S convertible utilizes a supercharged 1.6-liter engine that generates 168 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Both variants of the Cooper S come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is offered as an option.
All 2007 Mini Coopers come with antilock disc brakes and a tire-pressure monitor. The S model also includes traction control, and should you equip either model with the Sport package, you’ll get BMW’s Dynamic Stability Control.
Other standard safety features include a tire-pressure monitoring system, side airbags for front occupants and full-length side curtain airbags in the hatchback. The Mini Cooper convertible features fixed roll bars perched just behind the rear seat.
Across the entire 2007 Mini Cooper range, engine output is modest. All models perform adequately in everyday traffic, but the hatchback’s newly designed engines offer smoother operation and broader power bands.
The turbocharged engine in the Cooper S hatchback provides more robust low-end torque compared to the supercharged unit in the Cooper S convertible.
However, long-time Mini fans may miss the distinctive supercharger whine of the previous version. Both generations of the Mini Cooper are known for their spirited handling, especially when equipped with the optional Sport Package.
The cars respond quickly to driver input, offering engaging dynamics and ample feedback through the steering wheel, pedals, and driver’s seat. The hatchback’s revised suspension and improved run-flat tires contribute to a better-controlled ride over rough surfaces.
4. Land Rover Range Rover Sport (2006–2013)
Few luxury SUVs are as iconic—or as leak-prone—as the Range Rover Sport of this era. Whether powered by a Jaguar-derived V8 or a turbo diesel, oil leaks are frequent and often costly to repair.
Timing cover, oil cooler, and even crankshaft seals have all been documented as problem areas.
A significant shift from Land Rover’s traditional emphasis on off-road adventure, the Range Rover Sport represents the brand’s first foray into the performance SUV segment. While it carries the Range Rover name, the Sport is actually a shortened, 450-pound-lighter variant of the LR3.
Its exterior design draws clear inspiration from the larger Range Rover, with engineers placing a strong emphasis on aerodynamics and sleek styling. A more compact wheelbase combined with a sharply raked rear hatch gives the Sport a more athletic and assertive appearance.
To enhance its on-road capabilities, Land Rover refined the steering and suspension, equipping it with a variable-ratio, variable-assistance ZF Servotronic steering system and monotube shock absorbers.
The Range Rover Sport is powered by two engine options: a Jaguar-sourced V8 that delivers 300 horsepower via a six-speed automatic transmission in the HSE model, and a supercharged version of the same engine, which increases output to 390 horsepower.
The Sport features a fully independent suspension with air springs at all four corners, along with the new Dynamic Response System, which automatically adjusts the sway bars to optimize roll control on both paved roads and rugged terrain.
Despite being engineered primarily for on-road performance—evident in its tire setup, stance, and suspension tuning—the Sport still retains essential off-road tools such as low-range gearing and the advanced Terrain Response system introduced with the LR3.
While the concept of a fast, sporty Land Rover SUV might seem contradictory, the 2006 Range Rover Sport proves itself with impressive acceleration and handling, positioning it as a serious contender in the high-performance SUV arena. At the same time, it maintains the superior off-road prowess that is a hallmark of the Land Rover brand.
Also Read: 5 Sedans With the Best Key Fob Range and 5 That Fail At Distance
5. Audi A4 (B7 and B8 Generations)
Audi A4s from the mid-2000s to early 2010s are known for their performance and styling—but also for leaking oil from almost every gasket imaginable.
The 2.0T engine, in particular, suffers from valve cover and camshaft seals that break down prematurely. In some cases, oil leaks have even led to smoking under the hood and fire hazards.
While no vehicle is completely immune to oil leaks, some clearly outperform others in keeping their fluids where they belong.
A significant shift from Land Rover’s traditional emphasis on off-road adventure, the Range Rover Sport represents the brand’s first foray into the performance SUV segment. While it carries the Range Rover name, the Sport is actually a shortened, 450-pound-lighter variant of the LR3.
Its exterior design draws clear inspiration from the larger Range Rover, with engineers placing a strong emphasis on aerodynamics and sleek styling. A more compact wheelbase combined with a sharply raked rear hatch gives the Sport a more athletic and assertive appearance.
To enhance its on-road capabilities, Land Rover refined the steering and suspension, equipping it with a variable-ratio, variable-assistance ZF Servotronic steering system and monotube shock absorbers.
The Range Rover Sport is powered by two engine options: a Jaguar-sourced V8 that delivers 300 horsepower via a six-speed automatic transmission in the HSE model, and a supercharged version of the same engine, which increases output to 390 horsepower.
The Sport features a fully independent suspension with air springs at all four corners, along with the new Dynamic Response System, which automatically adjusts the sway bars to optimize roll control on both paved roads and rugged terrain.
Despite being engineered primarily for on-road performance—evident in its tire setup, stance, and suspension tuning—the Sport still retains essential off-road tools such as low-range gearing and the advanced Terrain Response system introduced with the LR3.
While the concept of a fast, sporty Land Rover SUV might seem contradictory, the 2006 Range Rover Sport proves itself with impressive acceleration and handling, positioning it as a serious contender in the high-performance SUV arena. At the same time, it maintains the superior off-road prowess that is a hallmark of the Land Rover brand.
Whether you’re buying used or aiming for long-term ownership, knowing which cars resist—or succumb to—oil leaks can save you serious time, money, and driveway frustration.
