There is a lot of responsibility that goes into owning a car than just ensuring that the fuel is filled, and tyre pressure is what it is supposed to be. Instead, many owners refer to their vehicle as being their second baby since the amount of sacrifice requires them to assume a role like that of an actual parent.
As with your physical child, it is your responsibility to ensure that every component of your car is left in the best condition for each time you take it on the road. This often means making bookings for its annual service where an inspection would be done on the engine, brakes, suspension and fluid, ensuring that your car performs at its optimal best and increasing its longevity.
Failing to neglect these essential appointments might result in your car experiencing engine wear, damaged parts or even oil issues. This was the case during my recent trips to the beach, where a friend of mine decided to go the DIY route and fill up his car’s engine oil himself, as a result, he accidentally poured more than what was required. The result – a massive cloud of grey smoke.
The automotive company Nate Wade Subaru highlights that a little bit of smoke coming from the car’s exhaust pipe is absolutely normal, especially when starting the car on a cold day. The previously mentioned source also adds that this is often a sign of the condensation evaporating and is no real cause for concern.
However, if this appears to be a continuous occurrence in which the quality of smoke intensifies, perhaps it is useful to get your vehicle to a mechanic.
To help you determine what the problem might be, below is more information on how to determine the problem based on the colour of the smoke coming from your vehicle’s exhaust pipe as highlighted by tyre company Supa Quick.
- White-grey Smoke – A sign of coolant, caused by a leak that might have been resulted by a blown head gasket, leak in the head gasket, damaged cylinder head or cracked engine block.
- Grey Smoke – A sign of burning oil. However, there are various other reasons for this, which are influenced by excessive oil consumption, PCV valve failure, transmission fluid leak (automatic gearbox) and several others.
- Black Smoke – Cause by clogged air filters, which results in the car burning too much fuel.
When encountering any of these, it is best to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic.
Also see: SUV’s with a strong presence on South African roads
