Oil Contamination: Causes & Consequences

Oil contamination can be a silent yet serious threat to the longevity of your vehicle’s engine. Two common causes are bearing wear and head gasket failure, which often result in milky oil or coolant contamination. This article explains how these issues affect your engine over time and why it is important to address them promptly.

What Causes Oil Contamination?

Bearing wear can occur due to normal wear and tear or from improper lubrication. As bearings roll against the shaft, they gradually wear down, leading to a loss of their protective coating. This exposes the metal surfaces underneath, which then begin to oxidize and break down into tiny particles that mix with the oil.

Head gasket failure is another common cause of contaminated oil. The head gasket seals the combustion chamber from the engine block, preventing coolant from mixing with the engine oil. If this seal fails, it can allow coolant to enter the crankcase where the oil resides. This results in a mixture of coolant and oil, which appears as milky or cloudy.

How Does Contaminated Oil Damage Your Engine?

Contaminated oil damages your engine by reducing its ability to lubricate moving parts effectively. The particles from bearing wear can cause pitting on the metal surfaces, leading to premature failure of components such as pistons and cylinder walls. Additionally, coolant contamination can lead to corrosion issues within the engine, particularly in areas where it comes into contact with aluminum or other metals.

What Should You Do Right Now?

If you suspect your oil is contaminated due to bearing wear or head gasket failure, take immediate action. First, avoid operating the vehicle until a tow truck can be dispatched from EEK Mechanical. We will collect the vehicle and transport it to a certified workshop for thorough inspection and repair.

At the workshop, our team will perform an oil system flush and drain, removing any contaminated fluid and replacing it with fresh, clean engine oil. This process is crucial in preventing further damage and ensuring your engine operates at its best.

If you are unsure about the condition of your vehicle’s engine or have concerns about contamination, contact EEK Mechanical today. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you and ensure that your vehicle receives the care it needs to continue running smoothly.

For more information on our services, including how we dispatch a tow truck for roadside assistance and oil system recovery at certified workshops, visit our website or give us a call at 0800 769 000. Together, let’s keep your vehicle healthy and operational.