It’s a common saying: “Oil and water don’t mix.” No matter how one applies the phrase metaphorically, it matters on a literal level within your car. To keep your vehicle working well, the oil must lubricate the engine’s many parts and the water and coolants must counteract the immense heat created by a working engine.
If you do see that coolant and oil have mixed, make sure to seek foreign auto repair in Conway, AR right away, as this is often a sign of a serious problem. Keep reading to find out more about this issue:
- What can you see? One of the easiest ways to check for oil in the coolant reservoir is by looking at the coolant itself. If you notice that the coolant has become some sort of milky substance, or if it’s transformed into a brown mass, it’s a good sign you have oil mixing in there.
- Why does it happen? The most common reason for oil leakages is that the head gasket is broken or malfunctioning. The gasket is meant to seal off all the liquids and prevent any type of leakage, so when it’s not working, these individual liquids might mingle in ways that will harm your engine. A damaged cylinder head can also cause leakage. Lots of damage to things like the gasket or cylinder heads comes from engine overheating or overuse, so it’s important to take good care of your vehicle and schedule regular tune-ups.
- What should you do when you discover the problem? As with most car problems, the sooner you get your vehicle to a mechanic, the more quickly you can have the problem fixed. If caught early enough, and if it’s a minor problem, your mechanic may be able to replace a part and clean up the system pretty easily. However, your vehicle may need to have more substantial work like an engine overhaul, especially if you have a persistent issue or have ignored the problem for too long.
- Is oil in the coolant reservoir really a big deal? In short, yes. If you see this problem and do not follow up, you risk ruining the entire engine—and an engine replacement can cost a lot. More importantly, however, is that avoiding the issue could lead to something as dangerous as a fire or small explosion if the engine cannot cool properly. You should never risk your safety just to avoid inconvenience or cost.
When dealing with a difficult engine issue, you’ll want only the best in foreign auto repair in Conway, AR. If you’re in need of help, call the team at Riverdale Automotive, the premier auto shop for your European vehicles.
On top of engine repair, Riverdale Automotive can repair your brakes and your transmission, and also perform general maintenance. Our skilled technicians have the expertise you need to make sure your vehicle is performing beautifully. Call today to find out more or schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you keep your car running smoothly!