OIl Leakage from Cap Filler

2016 FORD FOCUS
66,000 MILES • 1.5L • 2WD • MANUAL
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MORG
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I had an oil change, but then, after driving the car, I saw that there was oil leaking out from under the car and oil splatters around the engine. The garage had put on the wrong (someone else's?) oil filler cap and oil was coing out from the filler cap. So....getting the correct filler cap is the easy part, but what should be done about the oil splattered around inside the engine area? Should I just leave it and things will sort themselves out? Or do I need to get it cleaned out? Or...?
Sep 23, 2025 at 8:19 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,248 POSTS
Hi:

If it were me, I would take the vehicle back and tell them to clean it. They caused the problem, so they should be responsible.

On the other hand, yes, it should be cleaned. Oil does have a flash point and can burn if it gets on a component that is hot enough. For example, an exhaust manifold or exhaust component can get hot enough. Therefore, it should be cleaned.

I don't want to scare you because the odds of a fire is lower than having one. But, anything is possible.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe
Sep 24, 2025 at 1:18 PM
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KRAKENAUTO
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 111 POSTS
Obviously I'd try to get the shop that done it to clean it up, but you can use a can or two of spray brake cleaner or parts cleaner to clean under the engine bay. Let it dry completely then you should be good to go.
Sep 27, 2025 at 11:07 PM
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