[lamoson]

on my last oil change on my 03' 2.5X i noticed some emulsified water on the dipstick. it wasn't a lot but definitely noticeable. i don't think it got in from the top but maybe. i didn't notice anything when i drained the oil, but i wasn't looking for it at that point either.

just wondering if anybody else has had this issue and what it might be from. i am coming up on another change so i will take note to check again.

thanks

 

[boxer25]

Could be a head gasket. Did you check for signs of oil in the coolant reservoir?

 

[boxer25]

Some light reading material on the head gaskets:

http://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/f88/2006-head-gaskets-problem-64464/
http://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/f66/head-gasket-design-changed-2010-n-models-69170/
http://www.subaruforester.org/vbulletin/f66/how-replace-ej25-head-gaskets-without-removing-engine-57335/

 

[Nick D]

From what I've seen a bad HG where coolant enters the oil turns the oil into "Chocolate Milk".

 

[funkymonkey1002]

Has it been cold in your area? I sometimes get condensation inside the dipstick tube that gives it that look when I check the dipstick, but nothing in the oil pan or oil system. My last oil change had more than I normally get, but the oil was fine when I drained it.

 

[lamoson]

i think it might actually be condensation. it is just a the dipstick and the cap, nowhere else. i had the same thing with my dirtbike and ice riding. changed the oil in the subi today and the oil looked fine. i will keep an eye on it now as the weather gets warmer to see if it goes away.

 

[bjcarter2]

i think it might actually be condensation.

That is what I was thinking too.

lamoson...What are you driving habits? Does the car stay outside where it gets cold-soaked? Do you make short trips where the engine may never fully heat up?

 

[Atomic1]

The amount of crankcase condensation can be worsened by a clogged pcv valve. May want to check it out.