dipstick has caked on oil deposits on it in 2002 hyundai elantra?

Question

They are darkish brown caked on deposits that run all the way down the dipstick to the oil level indicator. It scrapes off with the finger. The oil looks ok but the level is alittle above full. Before I bought it the vehicle only was driven 1000 miles in 6 months (had it changed when I got it), and i believe mostly short city trips. Could it be that these deposits are water in oil from condensate from short trips and the oil was just filled too much where I had it done, or am I leaking coolant into the oil? I just spent $450 getting the timing belt and drive belts done, is this going to end up being another $500 repair? :( Should I scrape off the deposits, and drain some oil (or just change it) and see if it happens more or what? Thanks

yes the dipstick is right next to exhaust manifold. thanks both

Answer 1

Also, if i am correct this engines dipstick runs close to the exhaust manifold. This is common because of the heat produced around the dipstick tube. No worries.

Answer 2

Yikes! I've never seen caked on deposits on a dipstick. Sounds like the previous owner didn't take very good care of it. I would recommend changing the oil and filter multiple times - like every 500 miles for the next 3 changes and see how things look then. Oil has detergents in there that will help clean things out. Sounds like it's pretty gunky in there.

Answer 3

You answered your own question, condensation on the dipstick from short trips. Scrape off the deposits and keep the oil changed. If the oil is not brown and milky in the crankcase, all should be fine.

Answer 4

The deposits on the dipstick is from lack of regular oil changes. This is happening all through the engine, especially on the piston rings. I have cleaned enough piston ring grooves to recognize it. The rings will be stuck in place and cannot perform properly thus causing oil consumption issues and other problems in the future . An engine flush may help.