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Home> Learn> Automotive Articles - What is Smoke from the Exhaust a Sign of?


What is Smoke from the Exhaust a Sign of?


 
 




 

The gas coming from the exhaust of a car should almost always be clear in color, with the exception of diesels at times of heavy use. When there is smoke coming from the exhaust tip of a vehicle it signals an issue with the internal workings of the motor. This is a very noticeable symptom of failure in the engine but what do these signs mean.

 

Smoke colors and their meaning:

 

White smoke - This is smoke that is created when the engine is burning excessive amounts of coolant or water. This smoke can be created by condensation in the internal areas of the motor or if there is a leak where the coolant is entering the piston.

 

Black smoke - This occurs when the combustion of the fuel did not happen in a controlled way. In other words there was too much fuel and it continued burning into the exhaust side of the engine.

 

Blue smoke - This is created when oil is burned in the cylinders. Oil can leak from many sources and when it reaches the cylinders it is burned off during the combustion stroke of the motor.

 

The color of the smoke will start the diagnosis of what the problem in the motor could be but it is a good idea to have a trusted mechanic take a long look at the vehicle.

 

 

 



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