Coolant in oil

Tiny
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 2005 BUICK LA CROSSE
  • 3.6L
  • V6
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 125,000 MILES
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.
Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 12:05 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
ASEMASTER6371
  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 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
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 1:09 PM
Tiny
NEWAY
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Okay, thank you.
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 1:37 PM
Tiny
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Guess I could check the front three myself at least.
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 1:39 PM
Tiny
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Yes, if you have the adapter and an air compressor.

Roy
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 1:48 PM
Tiny
NEWAY
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Would an auto parts store have the adapter I need?
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 2:04 PM
Tiny
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  • MECHANIC
  • 52,797 POSTS
You could probably rent the tester itself and that will have everything but the air compressor.

Roy
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Friday, March 8th, 2019 AT 2:07 PM

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