As a car owner, you’re bound to encounter some issues with your vehicle from time to time. One problem that you may come across is oil in your coolant tank. Oil mixing with coolant is not only unsightly, but it also indicates a potentially serious issue that needs to be addressed immediately. In this post, we will discuss what causes oil in a coolant tank and how to remove it from your car’s cooling system.
What Causes Oil in a Coolant Tank?
There are several reasons why oil can end up in your coolant tank. Below are some of the most common causes:
- Blown Head Gasket: The head gasket is the seal that separates the engine block from the cylinder head. If it blows, it can allow oil and coolant to mix, which can cause the oil to end up in the coolant tank.
- Cracked Engine Block: If your engine block has a crack, it can allow oil to mix with the coolant, causing the oil to appear in the coolant tank.
- Faulty Oil Cooler: Your car’s oil cooler is responsible for regulating the temperature of the engine oil. If it fails, it can cause oil to mix with the coolant.
- Worn or Damaged Seals: If the seals in your engine are worn or damaged, they can allow oil and coolant to mix.
- Faulty Transmission Oil Cooler: A faulty transmission oil cooler can also cause oil to leak into the cooling system. Have it inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic to prevent further damage to your vehicle.
How to Remove Oil from the Coolant System
If you notice oil in your coolant tank, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible. Leaving oil in your coolant system can cause damage to your engine and affect the car’s overall performance. Here are the steps to remove oil from your car’s cooling system:
Step 1: Drain the Coolant
The first step in removing oil from your coolant system is to drain the coolant. You can do this by locating the coolant drain plug and removing it. Ensure you have a container to catch the coolant. Dispose of the old coolant correctly, as it is hazardous waste.
Step 2: Use a Chemical Cleaner to Flush the System
To remove the oil from your car’s cooling system, a chemical cleaner is required. The chemical cleaner is designed to dissolve the oil and make it easier to flush out of the system. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific cleaner you choose, as the amount needed will depend on the size of your cooling system.
Once you have the cleaner, add it to the radiator and fill the system with water. Start the engine and let it run for 15-20 minutes to allow the cleaner to circulate through the system. Then, drain the system and flush it out with water multiple times until the water runs clear.
This step is crucial as oil can remain in the system if not thoroughly flushed out. The time it takes to complete this step will vary depending on the size of your cooling system and the severity of the oil contamination.
Once you have thoroughly flushed the system, move on to step 3.
Step 3: Check for Damage
After flushing the system, inspect the radiator, hoses, and heater core for damage. If any parts are damaged, they will need to be repaired or replaced.
Step 4: Refill with Coolant
Once the system is free of oil and damage, refill it with the appropriate coolant for your vehicle. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the correct type and mix of coolant.
Step 5: Monitor Your Car
After completing the steps above, it’s essential to monitor your car’s performance to ensure that the issue is fully resolved. If you continue to see oil in your coolant tank, you may need to take your car to a mechanic for further inspection.
Conclusion
Oil in your coolant tank is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. The causes can range from a blown head gasket to a faulty oil cooler or damaged seals. Removing oil from your coolant system requires draining the coolant, flushing the system, checking for damage, and refilling with coolant. It’s crucial to monitor your car’s performance after completing the steps above to ensure that the issue is fully resolved. If you continue to see oil in your coolant tank, it’s best to take your car to a mechanic for further inspection.
In addition to addressing issues like oil in your coolant tank, we also offer a range of other services to keep your car in top condition. From routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations to more complex repairs like engine and transmission work, we have the skills and expertise to handle any issue. We use only the highest quality and genuine parts and equipment to ensure that your car is performing at its best.
If you’re looking for a reliable, trustworthy auto service in Perth, European Prestige Auto Service is the right choice. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services. We’re here to help keep your car running smoothly, so you can enjoy a safe and comfortable driving experience.
