You noticed a small oil leak under your 2003 Chevy Impala It is coming from the front and after night of sitting there are about 3 drops on ground Is this an expensive repair?

A small oil leak of 3 drops overnight from your 2003 Chevy Impala is certainly something to address, but whether it's an *expensive* repair depends entirely on the *source* of the leak. Three drops overnight suggests a relatively slow leak, which is good news – a catastrophic failure would produce far more oil.

Possible sources, ranging from relatively inexpensive to very expensive, include:

* Valve cover gasket: This is a common source of leaks and usually a relatively inexpensive repair. Labor costs will vary depending on your mechanic.

* Oil pan gasket: Also fairly common and usually a manageable repair cost, though potentially more labor-intensive than a valve cover gasket.

* Rear main seal: This is a more significant repair as it involves accessing the rear of the engine, often requiring transmission removal. This is a more expensive repair.

* Oil pressure sending unit: A relatively minor repair and usually inexpensive.

* Other seals: Various seals within the engine can leak. The cost varies depending on location and accessibility.

To determine the cost:

1. Find the source: Try to pinpoint exactly where the oil is coming from. A clean engine and careful observation after the car sits will help. Take pictures.

2. Get it checked: Take your Impala to a trusted mechanic for diagnosis. They can identify the leak's source and provide an accurate estimate for the repair. A diagnosis is usually less expensive than a full repair.

3. Get multiple quotes: Don't be afraid to get quotes from several mechanics before committing to a repair.

In short: While a small leak isn't necessarily a disaster, ignoring it could lead to more serious problems (engine damage from low oil) down the road. Getting a professional diagnosis is the best way to determine the expense involved. Don't assume it's cheap or expensive until you know the cause.