Volvo 960 head gasket leak causing oil contamination in coolant and low coolant light issues on Volvo 960

Submitted by r12mike · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Volvo 960 owners report experiencing issues related to head gasket leaks, which can lead to oil contamination in the coolant system. This problem arises when the head gasket fails, allowing oil to mix with coolant, resulting in a chocolate milkshake-like appearance in the engine oil. Additionally, some owners notice low coolant light issues, which may indicate a head gasket problem if the vehicle is consistently low on coolant without visible leaks. A cracked head gasket can allow coolant to leak internally into the combustion chamber, leading to a loss of coolant without external signs of leakage. Regular inspection for signs of coolant leaks or damage is crucial, with particular attention to components like the radiator cap, hoses, and intake manifold gasket. Symptoms of a head gasket leak can include white exhaust smoke and a milky appearance in the engine oil. Before proceeding with repairs, it is essential for owners to confirm that the issue is indeed related to the head gasket, as other components may also be responsible for coolant leaks.

5 people reported this problem
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Volvo 960 vehicles with this problem

Average mileage: 152,000 miles
(118,000 - 216,000)

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