BIG RON

I bought a 1997 E320 several months ago, problem is a slight oil smell or a little smoke from the engine compartment after I turn off the engine. It's a very small oil leak , I'm sure, shows no loss of oil on the dipstick and I can't locate it. Anyone know where these engines usually leak or where I should look? There are 122,000 miles on it and it runs great. Thanks for any help! BIG RON

E320

check the passenger side head gasket or front and rear seal.I will bet with that miles of yours you need a head gasket replacement.

vinceC

Before jumping to the head gasket, check the upper portion of the timing cover. The seal between the upper and lower sections often weeps right where it intersects the head gasket. I suggest checking this area; if you find an oil residue, clean the area thoroughly and observe. The head gasket can also leak, but the timing cover almost always develops a leak over time. These oil leaks are more of a nuisance than a problem. The front crankshaft seal is another candidate, and you can check that from underneath after removing the undertray. Often a leaky front seal will leave a "stripe" of oil droplets on the undertray, as the oil is slung off the vibration damper.

BIG RON

E320, thanks for the response. I agree with your answer, but I still can't find a leak. Maybe if it gets worse it will show up. Any known easy fixes for these problems ? Thanks again. BIG RON

E320

Like Vince said Clean the area and observe then drive it for like 20 miles then check it again.Usually M104 engine are known for head gasket problem.