Went to go add oil to the car. This is the first time I had to top it off since owning. Saw this yellowish goo. Any ideas what it is?

 

How's your coolant level? Lots of short trips? Could just be moisture from lots of short trips and not getting the oil hot-hot.

 

The yellowish goo ("mayonnaise") is an indication that small amounts of coolant are getting into your oil. It may be something minor, but it bears investigation.

Check your coolant overflow tank for any indication of oil.

 

You need to take a nice long trip and get on it a bit, that stuff will disappear.

 

Not necessarily, as Lex said it could be a build of of moisture in the oil caused by too many short trips that don't get the engine up to temp enough.

 

It's usually just oil vapor mixing with water vapor from the crankcase. Wipe it out with a clean rag and drive the car more often than just short trips to bring everything up to operating temp to burn off the water vapor in the oil. It's especially common if it's been cold or you live in a humid climate.

But do check the coolant to make sure it perfectly clear.

 

It's definitely not time to panic, but it is a good time to do some sleuthing.

 

Could just be moisture from lots of short trips and not getting the oil hot-hot.[/QUOTE]

This. In the winter, even with longer trips, this builds up a bit. Happens less in warm weather. If your coolant is clear, don't worry, and keep motoring.

 

My AIR COOLED (IE - no coolant involved) 81 911 had this same problem because I drove it 3.5 miles one way to work on a regular basis....I know, it killed me to do that to it.....

 

Just checked coolant and looked fine. I am in virginia climate and have been taking quite a few short trips. Have a trip planed for North Carolina next weekend >6 hours. So I guess I will wipe clean , run it , and see.

 

Bring along a quart of oil, too. After you burm off the moisture/water, the oil level may drop. Have a good trip. Don't be affraid to visit the redline.

 

Long trips may not "cure" it. If the coolant stays clear and nothing else appears amiss, top it off and enjoy the car.

 

That is correct. As long as it's humid, even long trips you may see build up. As others have said, just check the coolant and engine oil level and condition and you should be fine.

 

The six hour trip should be sufficient to bring everything up to operating temps.

 

Just like a cold or the flu. You get more of it and more often in the winter months.
Enjoy your trip!