What Causes Engine Oil to Enter the Car Radiator?

2 Answers
KiraDella
07/28/25 8:36pm
Here are several reasons and solutions for engine oil entering the radiator: 1. Cylinder Liner Damage: The presence of engine oil in the radiator may be due to cracks in the cylinder liner. Under high pressure, engine oil can seep directly into the car radiator through these gaps. Solution: Replace or repair the cylinder liner. 2. Radiator Damage: Damage to the engine oil radiator or transmission radiator can also cause oil to mix into the radiator. Solution: Replace the radiator. 3. Cylinder Head Gasket Damage: If there is engine oil in the radiator and the radiator high-temperature warning light is on, it is highly likely due to a damaged cylinder head gasket. Since the fuel in the cylinder is under high pressure for a long time, causing damage to the cylinder liner, the oil and water passages become interconnected. Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket.
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DeEmilia
08/12/25 1:21am
I've been driving for over 30 years, and seeing engine oil in the radiator is nothing new. It's mostly caused by a blown cylinder head gasket, allowing oil to leak from the engine into the cooling system. Sometimes, cracks in the cylinder head or faulty seals in the oil cooler can also let oil mix in. This issue is quite dangerous—it can make the coolant murky, clog the pipes, and lead to engine overheating or even a blown engine. My old car had this problem once; I found oil droplets in the coolant with a strange odor. I immediately turned off the engine and had it towed to the repair shop—replacing the cylinder head gasket fixed it. I suggest you don’t push your luck and get a professional mechanic to check it. Regular maintenance is key; adding a leak preventer when changing the coolant can help avoid this.
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