MOTORING NEWS - A well-maintained vehicle should not emit any smoke from the exhaust, although it is normal to see water vapour issuing from the exhaust pipe on cold winter mornings shortly after the engine has been started.
However, if a well warmed-up engine emits smoke from the exhaust, the colour of the smoke may indicate the nature of the problem.
Grey smoke usually indicates that excessive engine oil is being burned due to worn parts within the engine itself.
White smoke may indicate that brake fluid is being drawn into the engine and burned due to a damaged brake booster, although on a diesel vehicle it may also indicate cold pre-combustion chambers.
Black smoke issuing from a petrol engine means unburned fuel is escaping from the engine, which may mean there's a problem with the fuel injection or engine electronics systems.
On a diesel engine, a certain amount of black smoke is normal, but if it becomes excessive under acceleration, the vehicle should be checked.
Tip courtesy of Bridgestone.
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