* Valve cover gasket: This is the most likely culprit if oil is simply covering the top of the engine. A worn or damaged valve cover gasket allows oil to leak from the valve cover, which sits on top of the cylinder head.
* Oil pan gasket: If the oil is mostly concentrated at the bottom of the engine, a leaky oil pan gasket is the prime suspect.
* Cracked engine block or head: This is a serious problem. A crack in the block or head can allow oil to leak out in significant quantities.
* Loose or damaged oil filter: Though less likely to cause widespread oil leakage, a loose or damaged oil filter could contribute.
* Other seals: Various seals within the engine, like the crankshaft seal or camshaft seals, could be failing.
In short, while a blown head gasket is *possible*, the description "leaking oil all over the engine" points to a different and likely more pressing issue than the head gasket itself. It's crucial to have a mechanic properly diagnose the problem to prevent further engine damage. Simply replacing the head gasket without addressing the source of the widespread oil leak would be ineffective and potentially wasteful.
