What would be causing sludge to be on my oil cap and some just inside the cap?

2002 CHEVROLET MALIBU
90,000 MILES
Avatar
GRRTTWEAVER
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I changed my oil in my car and noticed some sludge on the cap, I wiped it off and dismissed it as condensation. About 1500 miles later I checked my cap again and there was a good amount of sludge on and around the cap. I have been leaking coolant, but I have checked my dipstick quite often and the oil is normal and not creamy or anything. My dad broke the little plastic tube that runs to my PCV valve and we taped the tube with a piece of a pen in the tubr to keep it together so it might be the restricted air causing the condensation not to evaporate. I am just not sure what's going.
Mar 24, 2012 at 2:07 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
KHLOW2008
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
If the sludge you described is milky brown, that is coolant inside the oil and can mean a bad head gasket. If the leakage of coolant into the lubrication system is minute, the oil might not be affected and would not change color.

A pressure/leak down test should be able to confirm this.
Mar 24, 2012 at 4:27 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.