Car Smoke and What It Means

Paying attention to the color of your vehicle’s exhaust smoke can be a helpful way to identify potential issues early. The color often indicates specific problems that may need attention. Here’s a quick rundown of what each color might mean:

• White Smoke: Indicates a broken or blown head gasket, allowing coolant to seep into the combustion chamber. Solution: Inspect and replace the head gasket.

• Blue Smoke: Caused by worn piston rings letting oil enter the combustion chamber, where it burns off. Solution: Inspect and replace the piston rings.

• Black Smoke: Results from incomplete fuel combustion, often due to issues with spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, fuel quality, or airflow. Solution: Check and replace spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.

• Grey Smoke: Can indicate excessive oil consumption, a cracked PCV valve, a transmission fluid leak, or a faulty turbocharger. Solution: Inspect and repair or replace the PCV valve, transmission lines, or turbocharger.

If you notice your car’s exhaust matching one of the colors in the graphic and are concerned, we’re here to help. Our team can accurately diagnose the issue and provide the necessary repairs. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us at 620-282-0035.