Hi,

I took my honda prelude 2001 for a timing belt and oil change. The mechanic said that the cam end plug was leaking and replaced it.

After I got my car, I see smoke from under the hood. The mechanic said it's due to the oil that they washed off. Its been 170 miles and its still smoking. I checked the oil level yesterday and it was more than a quart low!!. I saw some fresh oil under the hood.

What could the problem be? I talked to the mechanic and he is not willing to fix the problem without new charges. He says it could be unrelated to the work he did.

Any suggestions about the source of the problem or how to deal with this mechanic?

Thanks in advance!
-Sean.

 

sounds like an oil leak that might be dripping onto your downpipe. As for the mechanic, kick him in the nuts. Then, while he's on the ground, tell him to get under the car and fix his mistake.

 

That's a good tip.

Is it safe to add some oil and drive to a mechanic who I trust. It's about 15 miles drive.
I am worried about damaging the engine or worse - setting it on fire!

 

Well, I wouldn't let the oil lever get very low, then you will get into more problems. Put some more oil in it and take it to another mechanic who knows what they are doing.

 

Which side of the engine bay is the smoke coming from?