DEFINITION: Foamy or discolored oil or an engine oil overfill condition may indicate coolant entering the engine crankcase. Low coolant levels, an inoperative cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat may lead to an overtemperature condition which may cause engine component damage. Contaminated engine oil and oil filter should be changed.

1. Inspect the oil for excessive foaming or an overfill condition. Oil diluted by coolant may not properly lubricate the crankshaft bearings and may lead to component damage. Refer to Lower Engine Noise, Regardless of Engine Speed.
2. Inspect by performing a cylinder leak-down test. During this test, excessive air bubbles within the cooling system may indicate a faulty gasket or damaged component.
3. Inspect by performing a cylinder compression test. 2 cylinders side-by-side on the engine block with low compression may indicate a failed cylinder head gasket. Refer to Engine Compression Test.

Faulty cylinder head gasket

Replace the head gasket and components as required. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection and Cylinder Head Replacement.

Warped cylinder head

Replace the cylinder head and gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection.

Cracked cylinder head

Replace the cylinder head and gasket.

Cracked cylinder liner

Replace the components as required.

Cylinder head or block porosity

Replace the components as required.