Rust in Oil Filler spout

[jswalker]

I recently purchased a 1999 328 IC. The car has 71K miles on it, and it runs strong. There is no visible smoke and no steam from the exhaust pipe. However, when I removed the oil filler cap, I found what appears to be rust along the walls where the oil is poured into the engine. This would lead me to believe that at soem point there was moisture in the block where it should not have been. Has anyone seen this before when it was not related to some catastrophic even such as a blown head gasket. I should note that the oil itself does not appear to be frothy so I am wondering if it could have been a previous occurence of something that was repaired. Any thoughts?

[Keith M]

Hi there. It is normal to see a bit of rust on the filler cap. As your engine goes from hot to cold after you turn it off, a bit of condensation occurs. This causes the rust on the steel part of the cap.

Keith

[Jeron]

It's common and I've heard several people mention this and my cars have it too. I haven't heard an explanation other than people saying it is normal. It isn't rust it's just a red discoloration or residue in the oil filler area.

I haven't put any research into the issue since it doesn't bother me. If you find out more let us know.

[Mr Hugo]

Originally posted by Keith M
Hi there. It is normal to see a bit of rust on the filler cap. As your engine goes from hot to cold after you turn it off, a bit of condensation occurs. This causes the rust on the steel part of the cap.

Keith

Same here, nothing to worry about.