Here's a breakdown of potential causes and fixes, ranging from easiest to most difficult (and expensive):
1. Valve Cover Gasket: This is the most common and often easiest fix. The valve cover gasket sits atop the cylinder head and seals the valve train. A leaking gasket will allow oil to seep out and drip onto the manifold.
* Fix: Replacing the valve cover gasket is relatively straightforward. You'll need a new gasket, some basic tools (sockets, wrenches), and possibly some new valve cover bolts. There are many online tutorials for this repair, specific to your engine. Clean the mating surfaces thoroughly before installing the new gasket.
2. Rear Main Seal: While less likely to drip *directly* above the manifold, a significant rear main seal leak *could* run down and collect there. This is a much more involved repair.
* Fix: Replacing the rear main seal requires partial transmission removal, and is best left to a mechanic unless you have significant engine repair experience.
3. Cylinder Head Gasket: This is the worst-case scenario. A blown cylinder head gasket allows coolant and/or oil to mix, resulting in a milky oil appearance, overheating, and significant loss of compression.
* Fix: Replacing a cylinder head gasket is a major repair, requiring significant mechanical expertise and specialized tools. It's almost always best left to a professional mechanic.
4. Oil Pan Gasket: While less likely to drip directly onto the exhaust manifold, a severe leak could find its way there.
* Fix: Replacement of the oil pan gasket requires dropping the oil pan; it's moderately involved but generally manageable for someone with some mechanical experience.
Troubleshooting Steps Before Repair:
1. Visual Inspection: Carefully inspect the engine bay *after* the engine has cooled completely. Try to pinpoint the exact location of the leak. Look for oil stains, dripping, or wet areas. A flashlight and a mirror can be helpful for accessing hard-to-see areas.
2. Clean the Engine: Thoroughly clean the engine bay with degreaser (follow the degreaser instructions carefully). This will help you identify the source of the leak after it reoccurs. Let the engine run for a short time, then re-inspect for leaks.
3. Check Oil Level: Regularly check your oil level. A significant leak will quickly lower the oil level, leading to engine damage.
Recommendation:
Unless you have significant experience with automotive repair, take your Sebring to a qualified mechanic. A misdiagnosis and improper repair can lead to much more extensive and costly damage. The location of the leak (above the exhaust manifold) suggests a potentially serious problem that requires professional attention. The cost of diagnosis and repair is far less than potential engine failure.
