Water mixing with engine oil

2007 NISSAN X-TRAIL
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GODYKE2002
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4 cylinder four wheel drive automatic 2427KM miles.

The car couldn't start,water mixed with engine oil,then the cylinder head was surfaced,the valves ground and the cylinder head gasket changed,afterwards the engine was started yet it was still mixing water and engine oil.
Jan 29, 2009 at 11:07 AM
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STRAILER
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Hey GODYKE2002,

The most likely cause is a blown head gasket, but there are many things that can cause it. here is a complete guide on what to look for when water is mixing with the oil:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolantantifreeze-in-the-engine-oil

Please run some tests and get back to us so we can continue helping you.

Best, Ken
Jan 10, 2017 at 12:28 PM
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STRAILER
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Hey,

Did you ever get the problem fixed?

Best, Ken
Jan 10, 2017 at 12:28 PM
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NORAH7
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Hi sir, my Nissan Xtrail 2002-2003 model automatic transmission mixes oil with water, could be the problem be the head gasket/radiator or the oil cooler?
Jul 15, 2020 at 12:21 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
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Good morning,

I would suspect the oil cooler which is common. When it fails, then this issue exists.

I would try this before doing anything else.

Roy

REMOVAL
1. Drain engine coolant from radiator drain plug at the bottom of radiator and from water drain plug on cylinder block.

NOTE: Perform this step when removing water hoses.

2. Remove oil filter.

CAUTION: Do not spill engine oil on drive belts.

3. Disconnect water hoses from oil cooler.
When removing oil cooler only, pinching water hoses near oil cooler to prevent engine coolant spilling.

CAUTION:
Perform this step when engine is cold.
Do not spill engine coolant on drive belts.

4. Remove connector bolt, and remove oil cooler.

CAUTION: Do not spill engine oil to rubber parts such as drive belts and engine mounting insulator.

5. Remove water hoses, brackets and water connector, as necessary.

INSPECTION AFTER REMOVAL

Oil Cooler
Check oil cooler for cracks.
Check oil cooler for clogging by blowing through engine coolant inlet. If necessary, replace oil cooler.

Relief Valve
Check relief valve for movement, cracks and breaks by pushing the ball. If replacement is necessary, remove valve by prying it out with a suitable tool. Install the new valve in place by tapping it.
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Jul 15, 2020 at 4:45 AM
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VELOCECLUB
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An oil filter is a vital part of your car's engine system that removes dirt, debris, and metal particles from the engine oil. As your engine runs, the oil collects contaminants that can damage internal parts if not removed. The oil filter traps these impurities, allowing only clean oil to circulate through the engine.
It’s important because clean oil helps reduce friction, prevent wear, and keep the engine cool and running smoothly. Without a working oil filter, your engine can wear out faster, overheat, or even fail completely. Replacing the oil filter regularly is a simple and affordable way to protect your engine and extend your car’s life.
Jun 9, 2025 at 11:14 PM
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VELOCECLUB
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https://mechanicpick.com/
Jun 9, 2025 at 11:18 PM
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MAURO KULBERG
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Hello.
Can a bad oil cooler get water in the engine oil? Or just oil in the cooling system?
Thank you
Jun 24, 2025 at 9:05 PM
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MAURO KULBERG
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Hello.
Can a bad oil cooler get water in engine oil? Or only gets oil in cooling system?
Thank you
Jun 24, 2025 at 9:06 PM
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STRAILER
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Oh yes, the bad engine oil cooler can put coolant in the engine oil.
Jun 25, 2025 at 11:02 AM