dtriggs

I checked the oil on my 9-5 today and it needed topping up so I opened the oil cap and it was covered in an orangey brown gunk - anybody know what this is and how serious it would be ? Is it the oil breaking down ? It's only 9 months since full Saab service and only 8000 miles ago. Car is a 9-5 Griffin with petrol 3.0L V6 LPT. (I have also posted on Saab forum but u guys are usually more helpful).

Thanks in advance.

ALi-B

iTrader: (1)

What kind of useage has the car been getting? If it's been local and short journeys, It wouldn't be suprising to get some foaming.

Basically it's a mixture of vapourised water, petrol and oil that condenses at the top of the engine, blocking your breathers and sludging up the engine. It is also acidic and corrosive too, so not healthy.

It could also be symptoms of a head gasket failure, so keep an eye on your water level and engine temp. Ideally get a pressure check carried out at a garage if your unsure.

If it is just foaming from short distance usage and driving like miss daisy, then I would recommend switching to 6month/6K oil+filter changes. Or use a better oil. (presuming its semi synth at the moment). I should add that only one weeks worth of short distance cold starts can cause this to happen, and a good long drive can dissapate and evaporate any light build up that has accumulated.