Coolant in Engine Oil

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 GMC Savana 3500, 2019 GMC Savana 2500, 2019 Chevrolet Express 3500, and 2019 Chevrolet Express 2500. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Cause	Correction
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. 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 . 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. Inspect by performing a cylinder compression test. Two cylinders side-by-side on the engine block with low compression may indicate a failed cylinder head gasket. Refer to Engine Compression Test .
Faulty external engine oil cooler	Replace the components, as required.
Faulty cylinder head gasket	Replace the head gasket and components, as required. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection , and Cylinder Head Removal - Left Side , and Cylinder Head Installation - Left Side , or Cylinder Head Removal - Right Side , and Cylinder Head Installation - Right Side .
Warped cylinder head	Machine the cylinder head to proper flatness, if applicable, and replace the cylinder head gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection .
Cracked cylinder head	Replace the cylinder head and gasket.
Cracked cylinder liner or engine block	Replace the components, as required.
Cylinder head, block, or manifold porosity	Replace the components, as required.