Coolant in oil

2005 BUICK LA CROSSE
125,000 MILES • 3.6L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
It doesn't overheat but there is coolant in the oil. I haven't checked the radiator for oil or transmission fluid. Honestly it still runs pretty well, aside from hesitating when changing gears. Could i have a blown head gasket? I'm really hoping it'll be a cheaper fix.
_Everyday car.
_Due for an oil change.
_Have added oil when necessary.
It makes a sort of grinding sound when making sharp right turns if I accelerate too quickly.
Mar 8, 2019 at 12:05 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 52,796 POSTS
Good afternoon,

It could from one of two places.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

It could come from an intake manifold gasket or it could from a failed head gasket.

Yes, you can have a bad head gasket without it overheating.

A leak down test needs to be done to confirm the head gasket. That is when they remove the spark plugs and add air into each cylinder and watch for movement in the cooling system. That will confirm if it is the head gasket.

Roy
Mar 8, 2019 at 1:09 PM
Avatar
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Okay, thank you.
Mar 8, 2019 at 1:37 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Guess I could check the front three myself at least.
Mar 8, 2019 at 1:39 PM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 52,796 POSTS
Yes, if you have the adapter and an air compressor.

Roy
Mar 8, 2019 at 1:48 PM
Avatar
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Would an auto parts store have the adapter I need?
Mar 8, 2019 at 2:04 PM
Avatar
ASEMASTER6371
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 52,796 POSTS
You could probably rent the tester itself and that will have everything but the air compressor.

Roy
Mar 8, 2019 at 2:07 PM