Ford Mustang Intake Manifold/Valve Cover Gaskets May Leak Oil

The Ford Mustang can develop oil leaks from the intake manifold and valve cover gaskets over time. As these rubber gaskets age and deteriorate, small cracks and gaps can form, allowing oil to slowly seep out. This oil can drip down onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold, causing burning oil smells. It can also leak externally down the engine block. If enough oil is lost over time, it can cause abnormal engine noises from insufficient lubrication, especially on cold startups before oil pressure builds.

Problem Explanation

The Ford Mustang can develop oil leaks from the intake manifold and valve cover gaskets over time. As these rubber gaskets age and deteriorate, small cracks and gaps can form, allowing oil to slowly seep out. This oil can drip down onto hot engine components like the exhaust manifold, causing burning oil smells. It can also leak externally down the engine block. If enough oil is lost over time, it can cause abnormal engine noises from insufficient lubrication, especially on cold startups before oil pressure builds.

Diagnostic Procedures

Diagnosing an intake manifold or valve cover gasket leak in a Ford Mustang requires following a systematic troubleshooting process:

Step 1) Visual Inspection

• Thoroughly examine the entire engine bay looking for obvious signs of an oil leak
• Look for wet oily surfaces, splash marks on components, or oil drips underneath

Step 2) Cleaning & Observation

• Use a degreasing agent or steam wash to remove built-up grime from the engine
• With the components cleaned, faint seepage from subtle leaks may now be visible

Step 3) Dye Testing

• Add fluorescent tracer dye to the engine oil and run engine to operating temperature
• Use an ultraviolet black light to detect any dye glowing areas identifying precisely where even microscopic leaks exist

Step 4) Oil Consumption Measurement

• Perform standardized oil consumption test by running engine a set interval
• Drain oil and quantify amount consumed to determine if excessive oil loss justifies gasket replacement

Step 5) Leak & Cause Verification

• Combine leak detection results with consumption measurements
• Verify root cause of oil loss to dictate necessary repairs

Following this structured diagnostic approach isolates whether intake or valve cover gasket replacement is required while checking for secondary issues. Proper testing saves unnecessary repairs.

Repair Solutions

Replacing deteriorated intake manifold and valve cover gaskets is the definitive repair solution. Gasket replacement begins with draining engine oil and removing ancillary components for access, including the air intake assembly, intake plenum/throttle body, fuel rails and injectors. The manifold itself is usually removed next. With the gasket surfaces exposed, technicians thoroughly degrease and scrape away any stuck on residue or failed gasket material. Only clean metal surfaces ensure robust sealing with the new gasket set. Precision torque specifications are followed for reassembly using new gaskets compliant with factory specifications.

Ford Mustang Model Years Potentially Impacted

Mustang model years from 2011-2014 are most susceptible to oil leaks from aging intake manifold and valve gaskets. However, intake gasket leaks have been reported across V6 and GT models spanning additional years as well.

Vehicle Components Potentially Affected

The following vehicle components can potentially be affected by intake manifold or valve cover gasket oil leaks:

• Intake Manifold – The intake manifold itself and integrated gasket seals are directly impacted by any leakage. The manifold distributes air/fuel mixture from the throttle body to cylinder heads.
• Valve Cover – The valve cover and corresponding gasket provide an oil tight seal over the cylinder head valve train components. Leaks here can drip oil externally.
• Oxygen Sensors – Engine oil contamination on oxygen sensors can impact proper feedback to the fuel injection and emissions control systems.
• Engine Control Computer – The engine computer can suffer electrical issues if subjected to oil exposure over time.
• Catalytic Converters – Oil drips landing on hot catalytic converters produce noxious burning odors along with catalyst poisoning from phosphorus.

Proper gasket replacement is crucial to prevent ancillary component failures related to oil leaks down the road. Technicians should also inspect secondary components once leaks occur to ensure proper vehicle operation.

Cost of Repairing this Issue

The typical repair cost for replacing just the intake manifold gasket is estimated between $350-550. This includes parts and labor based on a 6 hour job. If valve cover gaskets require simultaneous replacement, total costs usually run $550-750. Prices can be higher for dealership repairs. There are also customer reports of repeated oil leaks even after initial gasket replacement. This can double costs if seals fail prematurely. Using OEM or aftermarket gaskets specifically engineered for these engines may help minimize rework.