Oil looks clean on the dip stick, but looks dirty in the valve cover?

Asked by Savage83 Nov 25, 2017 at 07:42 PM about the 2007 Toyota Camry LE

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

This is a weird question, but why is the oil on my
dip stick looks clean, but when I take off the oil cap
the oil looks real dirty? Just changed the oil 1800
miles ago.

9 Answers

That is very good but if you have sludge I would shorten the oil change interval. I recommend removing the valve cover for inspection.

If I find any sludge, what would be the best way to remove it? What do you recommend?

I would probably not use a engine flush but would change the oil more often. How many miles on the car?

It has just over 178,000 on it now. Runs like a brand new car, and still powerful for what it is.

If you do use a flush this is the product I would try - LiquiMoly engine flush. I have not used it but their other products are great.

21,360

Suggest you replace the PCV Valve and test the system for proper function.

21,360

Have you ever noticed an issue with Excessive Oil Consumption?

Your Answer:

Camry

Looking for a Used Camry in your area?

CarGurus has 1,099 nationwide Camry listings starting at $2,500.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Reelin68
    Reputation
    34,290
  • #2
    Tony Ciccotelli
    Reputation
    19,180
  • #3
    Tony Ciccotelli
    Reputation
    5,530
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Honda Accord
52 Great Deals out of 978 listings starting at $2,995
Used Toyota Corolla
143 Great Deals out of 2,269 listings starting at $3,495
Used Honda Civic
206 Great Deals out of 4,071 listings starting at $2,877
Used Toyota RAV4
151 Great Deals out of 3,007 listings starting at $4,500
Used Toyota Camry Hybrid
19 Great Deals out of 205 listings starting at $7,995
Used Toyota Avalon
3 Great Deals out of 36 listings starting at $6,995
Used Toyota Tacoma
36 Great Deals out of 786 listings starting at $9,975
Used Nissan Altima
35 Great Deals out of 667 listings starting at $1,995
Used Lexus IS
18 Great Deals out of 399 listings starting at $599
Used Toyota 4Runner
26 Great Deals out of 536 listings starting at $14,791
Used Toyota Highlander
32 Great Deals out of 835 listings starting at $7,498
Used Lexus ES
17 Great Deals out of 214 listings starting at $5,900
Used Dodge Charger
36 Great Deals out of 865 listings starting at $5,995
Used Honda CR-V
187 Great Deals out of 5,043 listings starting at $440

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.