Hello,

I am new to this forum. A week ago I had the timing belt and water pump changed, plus a transmission service. It used to leak coolant/water and no obvious motor oil (from what I noticed on the garage floor). Now it leaks motor oil and no coolant/water. I brought the car back to the mechanic and he said there is a leak at the distributor cap O-ring. Why would this suddenly happen after some vehicle work? How difficult is it to change the O-ring? I used to do my own oil filter change on my Ford truck and Honda (I know this is different but I use it as an example that I am willing to learn). With the right tools and manual, can I do this myself?

 

Welcome! Glad to have you. Being in the repair business, I can honestly tell you it is rare indeed that a tech working on your car creates more issues while repairing an unrelated part. Not saying it doesn't happen; just that generally it is coincidence. More likely, the previous leak kept you from noticing the oil leak. I suppose he could have disturbed the rear seal while molesting the front replacing the cam belt...but it would take a lot. The o-rings do go bad, especially after 15+ years. Replacing the o-ring is not horribly difficult other than the fact it's awkward to get to. I highly recommend you buy a repair manual before taking it on. The manual will give you a better idea as to whether you want to tackle it or not.