I have recently noticed white goo on the oil change cap. Is this an indication of a problematic water leak in the engine? No white smoke is being emitted. Should I wory about this issue? Please advice I do not trust some mechanics where I reside

 

that can be a normal condition..i do see it frequently, mostly on cars that arent driven alot. dont worry about it. can be a sign of a bad headgasket but usually the white goo will be excessive and also in the crankcase itself.

 

Usually Normal.

Pull the dipstick. If it is full of white goo, you have a problem. But I bet you don't.

 

White goo is probably water condensate caused by short run driving in cold weather. If the engine is not permitted to reach the normal operating temperature for a sustained period of time to allow the condensate which forms after each cool down cycle, the moisture will accumulate and form an oil emulsion. This emulsion will look whitish and have a gooey consistency. If their are no other problems such as a leaky head gasket, the problem will go away if the engine is driven at normal operating temperature for sustained intervals. The engine oil in the crankcase requires many miles to be driven before it reaches the optimal operating temperature. Driving 4 or 5 miles and turning off the engine during the winter months can over time cause a considerable amount of condensate to form. If all is well with your engine,driving it long distances will drive off or evaporate any accumulated moisture which over time will disappear.