Questions and Answers

Cadillac Eldorado Has Coolant In The Oil Q. Problem: I had an oil change done last week and the mechanic told me that there was anti-freeze leaking into my oil and that is most likely a head gasket problem. He told me to get it fixed as soon as possible. First question I have for you is: Is he right? Will I have to replace the head gasket because anti-freeze is leaking into the oil? And 2) what is an estimated cost for this? 1988 Cadillac Eldorado 4.5 liter V-8 engine Automatic transmission 162,000 Miles Fuel injection, ABS, P/S, A/C Thank you much, Andrew

PS... Thank you for replying to my last question about engine lifter problems. I think this question might tie into it.

A. If there is coolant in the oil then yes, it is possible that either the head gasket(s) is blown or the cylinder head(s) are cracked.

To replace the head gaskets would run about 12 hours labor and about $200.00 to $250.00 in parts. So assuming a labor rate of $65.00 an hour, you're looking at about $1100.00 to $1200.00 including all the little stuff that adds up.

Worst case, add $657.00 for each cylinder head that is cracked. You can get used heads from a junkyard for about $150.00.