What Causes Engine Oil in the Radiator?
2 Answers
The main reasons for engine oil entering the radiator are as follows: 1. Cylinder liner damage. 2. Radiator damage. 3. Cylinder head gasket damage. If any damage is found, simply replace the damaged part with a new one, but afterward, the radiator must be thoroughly cleaned. Below are the steps for dealing with engine oil in the car radiator: 1. Disconnect the overflow tank and turn off the heater (set the switch to the cold air position). 2. After starting the vehicle and allowing the water temperature to rise, use a water hose to flush the radiator opening until no significant oil traces remain, then stop. 3. Turn off the engine, open the radiator drain valve, and start the engine once water begins to flow out. Continue adding water to the radiator opening to allow circulation for 5 minutes, then turn off the engine and stop adding water. After all the water has drained from the radiator, close the drain valve and refill with water. 4. Start the vehicle without covering the radiator cap, and after heating up, observe if there are any oil traces at the radiator opening. If none are found, the procedure is effective. 5. Reconnect the overflow tank and replace the coolant as needed.
Finding engine oil in the radiator usually indicates a problem with the cylinder head gasket. The cylinder head gasket is a sealing gasket in the engine; if it fails, oil can leak from inside the engine into the cooling system and mix with the coolant in the radiator. This contaminates the coolant, corrodes the pipes, and can cause the engine to overheat or even lead to a blown engine. I recommend stopping the car immediately upon discovery and not continuing to drive, as further damage can result in very expensive repairs. It's best to tow the vehicle to a professional shop to check whether the cylinder head gasket needs replacement or to inspect other components, such as the oil cooler, for cracks.
