Needing opinion

[SFCP]

I just changed the oil in my mom's Dodge Stratus (4 cyl) engine. It's a 2000 model year and has only 46k on it. It is driven strictly in town, many many short trips. When I opened the oil cap, there was a milky whitish/yellow substance on the bottom that wiped right off. This indicates moisture from what I understand. The antifreeze has stayed on it's mark for the past 3 years we've owened it, so I'm 99% sure there is no leak there. However, I need to know if short trips causing water condensation internally can create the formation of this milky looking substance on the bottom of the oil cap? Any idea of this could be true?

 

[SFCP]

*****in addition*****
I've been change her oil every 3 months even though she only puts 800 miles on it during that time frame. I just don't want to leave ANY oil in that crank case with all those short trips she makes.

 

[Lonnie]

In the absense of other info, you are correct. You might want to consider changing the oil more often and going a some longer drives.

 

[2oldtommy]

I would check the PCV valve. This short distance driving is preventing the normal condensation from being boiled off.If the PCV is clear and open, then I would suggest a 25-50 mile drive once a week. Your 800M OCI seems like it should do the job, but it isn't. Also, a pressure check of the cooling system may be in order.FWIW

 

[BradC]

That same white milky substance in my GM 3.1L V6 was the result of a coolant leak (lower intake manifold gasket to be specific).

You might want to get a pressure test done on the coolant system just to completely eliminate the possibility that there is a coolant problem brewing.

 

[ted s]

its only condensation from all the short trips.

 

[SFCP]

I'm certain as well it has to do with the short trips. I can't see myself changing her oil on an even shorter OCI than 3 months. But I was wondering... Is the water condensation from short trips in a 3 months OCI hurting anything internally?

 

[Gene K]

The condensation on the oil fill cap is normal in the winter for some vehicles. I have seen it on some when parked overnight with fresh oil. Check to make sure the thermostat is operating correctly. Why not consider a $20.00 Blackstone UOA (Check Sponsors Forum). They will send you a free analysis kit. I would switch to synthetic and change it yearly if it was mine.

 

[Ramblin Fever]

Have the same issue in my Mom's '85 BMW, only drives it maybe a 1k a year - currently have Rotella synthetic 5w-40 in it, probably change it twice/year just because of the colder climate and that it sits a lot.

 

[gedcruise]

You'll find no shortage of opinions herein.
That said, you are almost certainly seeing condesation products that are not being boiled out. A UOA will confirm that you don't have an internal coolant leak.
What if someone uses the car hard once a month or so? That should eliminate the mayonaise, and would be good for the car.