What happens if the coolant and oil mix?

[Mike Alex]

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What happens if the coolant and oil mix?​

I. Function of engine coolant and lubricating oil.

Oil and coolant are the two most important fluids in your engine. The oil lubricates the engine, allowing it to run smoothly. The coolant keeps the engine at an optimal temperature.
Coolant and oil mixing is a bad sign. This is because it usually points towards the failure of an important part in your engine/cooling system. An oil/coolant mixture will quickly travel around your engine, resulting in overheating and increased engine wear over time.

II. Possible causes of coolant/oil mixture

Blown head gasket – The head gasket sits between the engine block and cylinder head. A blown head gasket can cause the oil to leak out of your engine, mixing with the coolant. If your head gasket blows, you may face serious engine damage. This is because of the high temperatures damaging and warping the cylinder head.

Cracked cylinder head – Overheating can lead to cylinder head damage. This is due to the coolant being directed incorrectly and eventually mixing with the oil.

Damaged oil cooler – Some vehicles have an oil cooler that helps the oil to reach a lower temperature before it is pumped back into the engine. If the oil cooler leaks, the oil can mix with the coolant.

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III. Symptoms of mixed oil and coolant

Overheating – If coolant mixes with the oil, the engine will not be able to cool or lubricate itself properly. This can result in overheating and increased engine wear. Keep an eye on your temperature gauge and refrain from driving if it gets too high.

Excess exhaust smoke – If you see large amounts of smoke coming from your exhaust, it could be due to a failure in your head gasket or engine cylinders.

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