Best Oil Additives to Stop Leaks

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Oil leaks can be a frustrating issue for vehicle owners, potentially leading to engine damage, reduced performance, and expensive repairs if not addressed. Oil additives designed to stop leaks provide a quick and cost-effective solution by softening and conditioning worn seals and gaskets in the engine. Over time, these parts can harden or shrink, causing oil to escape, but leak-stopping additives aim to restore their flexibility and improve sealing. When selecting an oil additive to stop leaks, it’s crucial to consider compatibility with your engine type and oil formulation, as well as the product’s effectiveness and longevity. After thorough research and testing, we’ve identified the best oil additives that successfully stop leaks and keep engines running smoothly.

  • Lucas Engine Oil Stop Leak

    10

    We think this Lucas oil additive is a solid choice for stopping minor engine oil leaks in older vehicles.

    10

    We think this Lucas oil additive is a solid choice for stopping minor engine oil leaks in older vehicles.

    Pros

    • Helps reduce oil consumption
    • Easy to use
    • Works on multiple seal types

    Cons

    • May not fix major leaks
    • Takes time to see results
    • Not a permanent solution

    We poured this Lucas stop leak additive into our old Saturn’s engine and noticed a difference after a few days. The small puddles of oil on our driveway started to shrink. It’s not an instant fix, but it does seem to help with minor leaks.

    The thick liquid blends well with motor oil. We didn’t notice any issues with engine performance after adding it. For best results, we found it works better when you change your oil at the same time.

    This product isn’t a magic bullet for all oil leaks. Big leaks from worn gaskets or seals will likely need mechanical fixes. But for small leaks in older engines, it’s worth a try before spending money on costly repairs. We liked that it’s made in the USA and comes from a trusted brand in the automotive world.

  • Bardahl NoSmoke + StopLeak

    9.7

    We recommend this oil additive for older cars with oil burning issues and leaks.

    9.7

    We recommend this oil additive for older cars with oil burning issues and leaks.

    Pros

    • Reduces oil burning and smoke
    • Helps seal engine leaks
    • Quiets noisy engines

    Cons

    • May need multiple bottles for severe issues
    • Results can vary by vehicle
    • Not a permanent fix for major problems

    We tested Bardahl NoSmoke + StopLeak in a 1995 Acura Integra with 250,000 miles. The car was burning oil and smoking at stops. After adding this product, we saw a big drop in smoke and oil consumption.

    The thick formula filled in gaps between worn engine parts. This cut down on oil slipping past piston rings. We also noticed the engine ran quieter. The additive seemed to help with dry, brittle seals too.

    For best results, we poured it into a warm engine after an oil change. One bottle treats up to 6 quarts of oil. While it’s not a cure-all, we think it’s a good option for older cars. It can buy some time before more costly repairs. Just don’t expect miracles if your engine has major wear.

  • Prestone Engine Leak Stopper

    9.5

    We recommend this product for its quick-acting formula and long-lasting effects in stopping engine oil leaks.

    9.5

    We recommend this product for its quick-acting formula and long-lasting effects in stopping engine oil leaks.

    Pros

    • Fast-acting seal rejuvenation
    • Long-lasting protection
    • Works with all oil types

    Cons

    • May not fix severe leaks
    • Results can vary by vehicle
    • Slightly pricier than some alternatives

    When we tested Prestone’s Stop Leak Additive, we were impressed by how quickly it got to work. We noticed a reduction in oil leaks within a short time after adding it to our test vehicle’s engine. The full-synthetic formula did a great job of softening and expanding hardened seals.

    We like that this product is compatible with all types of motor oils. Whether you use synthetic, conventional, or high mileage oil, this additive mixes in seamlessly. It’s a versatile solution for different engines and oil preferences.

    One thing that stood out to us was the long-lasting effect. Unlike some other stop leak products we’ve tried, this one kept working for an extended period. We didn’t need to add more as frequently, which is a plus for busy car owners. While it may cost a bit more upfront, we think the longer-lasting protection makes it worth considering for those dealing with pesky oil leaks.

  • Lucas Hydraulic Oil Booster

    9.4

    We recommend this product for its effectiveness in stopping hydraulic leaks and improving system performance.

    9.4

    We recommend this product for its effectiveness in stopping hydraulic leaks and improving system performance.

    Pros

    • Stops leaks quickly
    • Extends hydraulic fluid life
    • Reduces system temperature

    Cons

    • May not work for severe leaks
    • Requires regular use
    • Can be messy to apply

    We tried Lucas Hydraulic Oil Booster in our old tractor’s leaky hydraulic system. The results were impressive. Within a day, we noticed a big drop in leaks. The tractor’s lift arms moved more smoothly too.

    This product does more than just stop leaks. It helped our hydraulic fluid last longer. We didn’t need to top up as often. The system also ran cooler, which is good for long-term health.

    Using it was simple. We just added it to the hydraulic fluid. It mixed in easily. The only downside was some mess while pouring. A funnel helps. For best results, we found using it regularly works well. It’s not a one-time fix, but it’s cheaper than repairs.

  • Bar’s Leaks Oil Seal Repair

    9.3

    We recommend this product for car owners looking to fix minor oil leaks without costly repairs.

    9.3

    We recommend this product for car owners looking to fix minor oil leaks without costly repairs.

    Pros

    • Stops small oil leaks effectively
    • Works on many engine types
    • Easy to use

    Cons

    • May not fix major leaks
    • Results can vary
    • Takes time to see effects

    We tried Bar’s Leaks Oil Seal Repair in a car with a small oil leak. After adding it to the engine oil, we noticed less oil on the driveway within a few days. It’s simple to use – just pour it in and drive normally.

    This product works for many vehicles. We tested it in both older and newer cars. It helped reduce oil burning and blue exhaust smoke in a high-mileage truck. The leak stopped completely in another car we tried it on.

    While it fixed minor issues, Bar’s Leaks might not solve big problems. A friend’s car with a major oil leak still needed repairs after using it. It also took about a week of driving before we saw full results. For small leaks though, this product can save time and money on mechanic visits.

  • ATP Re-Seal Leak Stopper

    9.1

    We think this product is a reliable solution for minor oil leaks in older vehicles.

    9.1

    We think this product is a reliable solution for minor oil leaks in older vehicles.

    Pros

    • Stops small leaks quickly
    • Works on many types of seals
    • Easy to use

    Cons

    • May not fix major leaks
    • Results can vary
    • Needs reapplication over time

    We tried ATP Re-Seal in a few older cars with minor oil leaks. It’s simple to use – just pour it in with the oil. We noticed a big drop in leaks after about 100 miles of driving.

    The product seems to work well on rubber seals and gaskets. It fixed small leaks from valve covers and oil pans in our test vehicles. We like that it’s safe for engines and doesn’t harm other parts.

    One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not a permanent fix. We had to add more after a few months in some cases. It also didn’t work on very large leaks. But for small, annoying drips, we found it quite helpful. We think it’s worth a try before spending money on big repairs.

  • Bar’s Leaks Engine Saver

    9

    We think Bar’s Leaks Engine Repair-It is a solid choice for drivers looking to extend the life of high-mileage vehicles with oil leaks.

    9

    We think Bar’s Leaks Engine Repair-It is a solid choice for drivers looking to extend the life of high-mileage vehicles with oil leaks.

    Pros

    • Stops most oil leaks quickly
    • Improves engine performance
    • Easy to use

    Cons

    • May not work for severe leaks
    • Effects can be temporary
    • Strong smell

    We tested Bar’s Leaks Engine Repair-It in a 2010 Toyota Corolla with 150,000 miles. The car had been losing about a quart of oil every 1,000 miles. After adding this product during an oil change, we noticed a big difference.

    The oil leak slowed down right away. After 2,000 miles, we barely needed to add any oil. The engine also ran more smoothly and quietly. We were impressed by how well it worked for such an old car.

    One downside is the strong chemical smell when you first add it. It fades after a few days, but it’s pretty strong at first. Also, while it worked great for our minor leak, it might not fix major engine problems. For us, though, it was way cheaper than taking the car to a mechanic for repairs.

  • BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak

    8.7

    We think BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak is a solid choice for drivers looking to fix minor oil leaks without costly repairs.

    8.7

    We think BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak is a solid choice for drivers looking to fix minor oil leaks without costly repairs.

    Pros

    • Easy to use
    • Works on many engine types
    • Safe for engine components

    Cons

    • May not fix major leaks
    • Results can vary
    • Needs time to work

    We tried BlueDevil Oil Stop Leak on a car with a small oil leak. The process was simple – we just poured it into the engine oil. It took a few days, but we noticed less oil dripping on the garage floor.

    This product seems to work best on minor leaks from gaskets and seals. It’s not a magic fix for big problems, though. If your car is losing lots of oil fast, you’ll likely need a mechanic.

    We like that BlueDevil is safe for engines. It doesn’t use harsh chemicals that could cause damage. The formula aims to soften and expand rubber seals, which helps stop leaks. While it worked for us, some cars might need more than one treatment.

  • Lucas Oil Stop Leak

    8.7

    We recommend this oil additive for its effectiveness in stopping leaks and improving engine performance.

    8.7

    We recommend this oil additive for its effectiveness in stopping leaks and improving engine performance.

    Pros

    • Seals oil leaks quickly
    • Reduces engine noise
    • Works with various oil types

    Cons

    • May not fix severe leaks
    • Results can vary by vehicle
    • Slightly pricey compared to other brands

    We tried Lucas Oil Stop Leak in a 2009 Ford Escape that had been dripping oil. Within a week, the leak stopped completely. This product impressed us with how fast it worked.

    The additive is easy to use. We just poured it into the engine oil, and it mixed in smoothly. There was no odd smell or mess. Our engine even seemed to run more quietly after using it.

    We like that Lucas Oil Stop Leak works with different types of motor oil. It’s good for older cars and newer models alike. While it may not fix major leaks, it’s great for small to moderate oil seepage. We think it’s a smart choice for extending the life of aging engines.

  • XADO ATOMEX Engine Seal Restorer

    8.6

    We think this oil additive is a solid choice for stopping minor leaks and rejuvenating seals in high-mileage engines.

    8.6

    We think this oil additive is a solid choice for stopping minor leaks and rejuvenating seals in high-mileage engines.

    Pros

    • Fixes small leaks in various engine types
    • Reduces oil consumption
    • Affordable alternative to costly repairs

    Cons

    • May not work for severe leaks
    • Takes time to see results
    • Mixed success reported by users

    We tried the XADO ATOMEX Oil Additive in a few different vehicles. It worked well on a 2015 BMW X5 with a minor oil leak. After adding it to the engine oil, we noticed a significant reduction in leakage over a few weeks.

    The product claims to restore elasticity to rubber gaskets and seals. We found this to be true in our tests. It seemed to soften and expand old, hardened seals, helping to prevent further leaks.

    One thing we liked was its versatility. We used it in both car and motorcycle engines with similar results. It’s nice to have a single product that works across different vehicle types.

    We did notice it took some time to see the full effects. In one case, it took about three weeks and two bottles to significantly reduce a leak in a Ford F350. Patience is key when using this product.

    While it worked well for minor to moderate leaks, we wouldn’t rely on it for major problems. If you have a severe leak or a blown head gasket, you’ll likely still need professional repairs.

Buying Guide

When looking for an oil additive to stop leaks, there are a few key factors to consider:

Compatibility

We recommend checking if the additive works with your specific engine type and oil. Some products are designed for certain vehicles or oil formulations.

Leak Type

Different additives target various leak sources. Identify where your leak is coming from – seals, gaskets, or elsewhere – and choose accordingly.

Ease of Use

Look for additives that are simple to pour into your oil system. Clear instructions are a must.

Treatment Duration

Some products work quickly, while others need more time. Pick one that fits your needs and timeline.

Safety

We suggest opting for additives that won’t harm your engine or affect its performance negatively.

Price

Compare costs, but remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value.

Customer Reviews

Read what other users say about the product’s effectiveness and any potential issues.

Quantity

Make sure the bottle size is appropriate for your engine’s oil capacity.

Warranty

Check if using the additive could affect your vehicle’s warranty.

By keeping these factors in mind, we can help you find an oil additive that best suits your needs and effectively stops leaks in your engine.