Question: Why is my engine oil turning red?
Answer:
In a well-maintained vehicle with no leaks or mechanical issues, red engine oil means it’s just about time to change your oil. Over time, oil darkens from its original golden hue, reaching a dark red-brown color just before its time for an oil change.
If you notice, however, that your oil is bright red, you should ensure it’s not supposed to be that color. Some high-performance oils come in a reddish hue, so check with your mechanic or your vehicle’s service records to confirm whether you have that type of oil in your engine.
When to worry about engine oil color or consistency
It’s essential to understand when the color or consistency of your engine oil indicates a problem. Here’s what different oil colors and textures might mean for your vehicle:
Bright red oil
If your engine oil is a bright, translucent red, it might not be engine oil at all. Instead, it could be transmission fluid, which is usually dyed red for easy identification. A leak in the transmission system can cause this fluid to mix with your engine oil. Check the transmission fluid level and inspect for leaks to address this issue promptly.
Green or blue oil
If your engine oil appears green or blue, coolant could have mixed with the oil. This is often due to a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block. Coolant in the oil can cause a milky appearance and can severely damage your engine, requiring immediate attention from a professional mechanic.
Milky or frothy oil
If the oil has a milky or frothy appearance but doesn’t have a blue or green tinge, it could indicate water in the oil, often due to a blown head gasket or a cracked engine block. This mixture can severely damage your engine and requires immediate attention from a professional mechanic.
How to avoid oil discoloration
Regular driving causes your oil to darken, but following these guidelines will help you avoid the types of discoloration that are a causes for real concern:
- Regular maintenance: Sticking to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule is crucial. Regular oil changes and inspections can help catch potential issues before they become serious problems.
- Quality oil and filters: Always use high-quality oil of the correct type for your engine and filters as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. Cheap oil or oil that is the wrong type for your engine can break down faster and may not provide the necessary protection for your engine.
- Monitor fluid levels: Regularly check all your vehicle’s fluid levels, not just the engine oil. This includes transmission fluid, coolant and brake fluid. Keeping these at the correct levels helps maintain overall vehicle health.
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
Phil Metzger is a personal finance editor and writer with more than 30 years of experience editing and writing content across a variety of industries. In writing and editing for Jerry, Phil’s mission is to help car owners better understand their vehicles and the costs associated with car ownership. Before joining Jerry, Phil worked as a writer and editor for newspapers, magazines, television radio and online news. His work has appeared in many major publications and websites over the years, including a series he edited that was a finalist for a Pulitzer Prize.
