What is this creamy-coloured deposit around our Clio's oil filler?

There is a creamy coloured deposit in the oil filler of my wife's 2008 Clio 1.2TCE (26k miles). The water level and oil level are normal and the oil is a good colour. The car was serviced in December. There is a film of oil around the oil filler cap. Any ideas what this could be and is it serious?

Asked on 3 August 2013 by EB, via email

Answered by Honest John
It's emulsified oil. If the water content is no more than condensation from successive cold starts after which the engine did not get hot enough to evaporate off the condensation caused by the cold start, then not a serious problem. The mayonnaise will probably disappear over the summer. But if the coolant level drops then you may have a cylinder head gasket problem or a crack in the cylinder head water jacket, or a problem with the water-cooling system of the turbo.
Similar questions
I have a 13 year old Audi A6 Allroad, which I use in the Alps in the winter. However, I’ve noticed that the car runs very poorly in cold weather and sometimes will refuse to start. I’ve tried using polar...
Does a creamy substance on the oil cap indicate head gasket problems?
What is the cause of white exhaust smoke, even when the car is warm, from my 2008 Renault Modus 1.2 petrol with 32,000 miles on? There is also a small amount of emulsion inside the oil filler cap but no...
Related models
Refined, comfortable and well equipped. Excellent crash test rating. 1.5 dCi is very economical. RenaultSport Clio now 197PS.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer