Oil Pan Replacement in Maryland Heights, MO

The oil pan is located at the bottom of your engine, attached to the underside of the engine block. It serves as a reservoir for engine oil when your vehicle isn't running. When your engine operates, oil circulates through the engine to lubricate moving parts, then drains back into the pan.



We often see oil pans damaged by road debris or improper jacking procedures. A functioning oil pan not only stores oil but also helps cool it. Many pans have fins or ridges that increase surface area to dissipate heat better.

The pan also contains the drain plug, which we remove during oil changes. Some advanced designs include baffles that prevent oil from sloshing during hard cornering or braking, ensuring consistent oil pressure.

Types of Oil Pans

Oil pans come in several materials and designs depending on your vehicle model. Most commonly, we see:

• Stamped steel pans - Found in many everyday vehicles, affordable but prone to denting
• Cast aluminum pans - Lighter weight, better heat dissipation, common in performance vehicles
• Deep sump pans - Hold extra oil for high-performance applications
• Baffled pans - Contain internal structures to control oil movement

Aftermarket oil pans offer various benefits like increased capacity or improved cooling. Some performance vehicles use dry-sump systems with external oil tanks, though these are rare in standard passenger cars.

When replacing your oil pan in Maryland Heights, we match the replacement to your specific vehicle make and model to ensure proper fit and function.

Replacing an oil pan is a complex procedure that requires careful attention to detail and proper technique. At Quality Auto Repair & Auto Sales, we follow a systematic approach to ensure your vehicle gets back on the road quickly and safely.

• Initial inspection
• Draining engine oil safely
• Removing the old oil pan
• Installing the new oil pan

Routine Maintenance Tips

Regular inspections are essential for oil pan health. We recommend checking your oil level every two weeks to ensure proper lubrication and prevent engine damage.

Change your oil according to your vehicle's maintenance schedule—typically every 3,000-7,500 miles depending on your car and driving conditions. Fresh oil reduces sludge buildup that can damage your pan.

Install a skid plate if your vehicle doesn't have one. This affordable addition provides valuable protection against road debris and obstacles.

Check for leaks by looking for oil spots under your parked vehicle. Early leak detection can prevent complete oil pan failure.



Have your engine mounts inspected annually. Worn mounts can cause engine movement that puts pressure on the oil pan.