An oil pan gasket is a seal that sits between the oil pan and the engine block of a car. Its purpose is to prevent oil leaks by sealing the connection between the two parts, ensuring that the oil stays in the pan and doesn’t leak out.

The oil pan gasket is made of a durable material such as rubber or cork, but over time it can become hard, brittle or leaky due to exposure to heat, oil and other chemicals. When that happens, it can cause oil leaks which can lead to several issues:

• Reduced oil pressure
• Low oil level
• Oil leaks on the ground
• Reduced engine performance
• Reduced engine efficiency
• Increased engine wear
• Reduced engine life

To fix the issue, the oil pan gasket must be replaced. This is typically done by removing the oil pan and installing a new gasket in its place. This requires the use of special tools, and it should be done by a professional mechanic or an experienced technician.

It’s important to note that oil leaks can also be caused by other factors such as worn out oil pump, damaged oil filter, and damaged oil pan, so it’s recommended to inspect those components as well.