What are the symptoms of water in engine oil?

[EverlyRose]

Symptoms of water in engine oil mainly include: 1. If water enters the engine oil, it will cause the oil to emulsify, resulting in a white emulsion. 2. If water enters the engine oil, it will reduce the lubrication performance of the oil. Therefore, if water is found in the engine oil, it must be replaced immediately, and the cause of the water ingress must be identified. If the water ingress is due to engine failure, it must be repaired immediately. Additional information: 1. Engine oil, also known as engine lubricant, serves to lubricate and reduce friction, assist in cooling, seal against leaks, prevent rust and corrosion, and provide shock absorption in the engine. 2. Engine oil consists of two parts: base oil and additives. The base oil is the main component of the lubricant, determining its basic properties, while additives compensate for and improve the shortcomings of the base oil, imparting new properties, making them an important part of the lubricant.

[DiReid]

Symptoms of water in engine oil really gave me a scare last time. The oil should normally be clear golden, but when I pulled out the dipstick, it looked murky like coffee mixed with milk – obvious water contamination. After starting the engine, thick white smoke poured from the exhaust pipe, especially severe at idle with a distinct steam smell. While driving, the temperature gauge shot up rapidly, and the engine roared like a tractor. Poor lubrication could even cause piston rings to seize. The coolant reservoir level dropped quickly with oil droplets floating on top – the mixed fluids couldn't separate properly, risking rusted metal parts or leaking seals. I immediately shut off the engine and towed it for repairs. The mechanic replaced the cylinder head gasket to fix it, otherwise engine failure was highly likely. Now I regularly check oil color and fluid levels, stopping immediately if anything seems off.

[DelNolan]

As someone who frequently tinkers with cars, I find the symptoms of water in engine oil quite typical: when checking with the dipstick, the oil appears milky white or brown and feels sticky to the touch, as water contamination compromises lubrication. During engine operation, white smoke emits from the exhaust pipe, resembling a steam engine—this indicates water vaporization. Abnormal temperature gauge readings, reduced coolant levels with a strong oil smell, and internal corrosion caused by oil-water mixture are red flags. Left unrepaired, it may lead to engine knocking and accelerated wear. I recommend inspecting oil quality during every service and stopping immediately if smoke appears or water temperature rises. For quick diagnosis, check for water droplets near the oil pan drain plug and use trouble codes to trace root causes like cracked cylinder blocks or leaking gaskets.

[DeAmir]

I remember when I first started driving, I encountered signs of water mixing with engine oil: thick white smoke from the exhaust pipe after a cold start, and the oil on the dipstick turned white like yogurt. The engine heated up quickly, power weakened, and there was more oil than water in the coolant reservoir. I discovered that a leaking radiator caused water to mix with oil, so I quickly replaced the gasket to fix it. Usually, just pay attention to checking the oil color and water temperature.