Another update, here's the latest:

They changed the oil last week and check the filter for any evidence of damage, and it all came out clean. They also did a dry compression test last week, and the results were 220 psi for all 4 cylinders (factory spec is 228psi). I drove the car for a few days (it seems to be driving just fine), and had them drop the oil pan and recheck for damage as was suggested on here. Everything checks out fine. Wet vs dry compression was done today as well. Wet results were 275-300 psi vs. dry 220psi for all 4 cylinders again.

Do these wet vs. dry results seem fine, or within normal limits?

 

My guess is that your engine is fine..... car never overheated? trail of oil lead to a parked car meaning it was just low on oil, right? My bet is that nothing is messed up, and if anything it is just in your head.....

No, I dont work for that dealership, nor any dealership.

 

They did a pretty reasonable job making sure your car was okay.

Time to move on!

 

Looks like your quick stop after sensing trouble really paid off. I can't believe how many drivers just keep going. I pull over if I hear or feel anything out of the ordinary and I don't blast the radio so I can hear what's going on with the car.

 

It looks like the harm done is minimal. Your compression numbers look good. But I'd keep an eye on your oil consumption, and make sure the dealer doesn't think they're totally off the hook.

Here's a suggestion: Get a Used Oil Analysis done at your next oil change. It's pretty simple to do, and it will tell a great deal about how much wear metal is in your oil after this incident. It doesn't cost much (I've used Blackstone Labs) and it will give you good peace-of-mind.

 

Had the same thing happen to me at my first oil change. Went to the dealership I bought it at and had them do it. Drove for about 50 miles and while driving through a grocery store parking lot heard a pop and and the bolt bang up against the underside. Luckily I knew immediately what it was and was only going 10 mph in a parking lot for 100ft. before I stopped. Dealer paid for the flatbed tow and that was about it. Not even a free next oil change...not that I'd use it. They gave me some line about whoever was responsible would be looking for a new job, but isn't torquing the drain bolt and filter back down the first thing you learn when changing oil?

For those changing their own fluids; I'd love to, but what are you doing with the old stuff? Building stockpiles of used engine oil? Please don't tell me to throw it down a storm drain either.

 

dont know about you but no one at a dealership or any automotive shop torques anything down .. only time we ever torque anything down is when we do engine rebuilt.. oh and sometimes use torque sticks for wheels..

 

You should be able to take it to any autoparts store and recycle it.