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Vauxall Astra Estate - Damp Oil Cap - Mike Bravo

Hi H.J

Just bought above a couple of weeks ago, but have noticed some sort of Damp looking foam on the Oil Cap, a friend said it could be the Cylinder Head Gasket.

Dunno what to believe.... help!

Vauxall Astra Estate - Damp Oil Cap - Peter.N.

This is quite a common problem when the car has been used for short journeys so the engine has rarely attained normal working temperature, give it a good long run and check it again. Its an emulsion of oil and water because it hasn't got hot enough to evaporate the naturaly occuring moisture.

Vauxall Astra Estate - Damp Oil Cap - Mike Bravo

Hello Peter.N.

Thank you very much for your advice, I surely need to take to a longer ride out of town. In the meantime could you please advice on any other important issues that I need to look out on this particular model. Its my first car and wouldnt like to mess up the taste!!

Thank you,

Mikebravo.

Vauxall Astra Estate - Damp Oil Cap - Peter.N.

Hi Mike

Don't know to much about modern Vauxhalls, I used to run Velox's and Cresta's in the '50s but they have changed a bit since then! I'm a Citroen diesel man myself. Most cars are a lot more reliable than they used to be, although the new ones seem to be going backwards. Regular oil changes are perhaps one of the most important factors in engine life, also make sure you have plenty of antifreeze as this protects against corrosion. Otherwise, if it drives OK it probably is.

Peter

Edited by Peter.N. on 18/05/2010 at 15:44

Vauxall Astra Estate - Damp Oil Cap - Gregory II
Look at the car review for this model. There are many potential faults, but being a vauxhall they are well documented. I am sure vauxhall dedicated forums can give a better idea about these vehicles: on potential problem that comes to mind is the EGR valve faults!!