About smoky exhaust emissions:

The exhaust acts as an emissions outlet for your vehicle, with CO2 and other greenhouse gases constantly being released as you drive. There are many different reasons smoke can come out of your exhaust. Fortunately, the colour and consistency of the smoke can help you diagnose the problem.

 

Black smoke coming from exhaust:

Black smoke coming from the exhaust can be caused by a variety of issues, some of the most common causes are:

  1. Rich Fuel mixture: A rich fuel mixture, which means there’s an excessive amount of fuel and not enough air in the combustion chamber, can cause black smoke to be emitted from the exhaust. This can happen when the fuel injectors are clogged or malfunctioning, the air filter is dirty, or the oxygen sensor is faulty.
  2. Worn or damaged injectors: Worn or damaged fuel injectors can lead to too much fuel entering the combustion chamber, causing black smoke to be emitted from the exhaust.
  3. Worn or damaged valves or piston rings: Worn or damaged valves and piston rings can allow oil to enter the combustion chamber, causing black smoke to be emitted from the exhaust.
  4. Clogged air filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing a rich fuel mixture and resulting in black smoke being emitted from the exhaust.
  5. Faulty EGR valve: A faulty EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve can cause black smoke to be emitted from the exhaust.

Learn more about rich fuel mixtures >

 

Blue/grey smoke coming from exhaust:

Blue or grey smoke coming from the exhaust can be caused by several different issues, some of the most common causes include:

  1. Burning oil: Blue or grey smoke can indicate that oil is being burned in the combustion chamber, which can be caused by worn or damaged valve guides, valve seals or piston rings. These components can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber where it can be burned along with the fuel.
  2. Leaking head gasket: A leaking head gasket can allow coolant to enter the combustion chamber, which can cause blue or grey smoke to be emitted from the exhaust.
  3. Turbocharger problems: If there are issues with the turbocharger, such as a malfunctioning wastegate or a damaged compressor, it can cause blue or grey smoke to be emitted from the exhaust.
  4. Clogged PCV valve: A clogged PCV (positive crankcase ventilation) valve can cause blue or grey smoke to be emitted from the exhaust. This valve is designed to remove excess pressure from the crankcase and if it becomes clogged, it can cause oil to be forced into the combustion chamber.
  5. Excessive Fuel: Similar to black smoke, blue or grey smoke can be caused by a rich fuel mixture, which is an excessive amount of fuel and not enough air in the combustion chamber. The color of the smoke may be more towards grey instead of black.

 

White smoke coming from exhaust:

It is normal for your car’s exhaust to produce thin white smoke. However, thick white smoke can mean that your vehicle has a serious engine problem. Thick white smoke can be caused an overheating engine which has damaged the piston rings or a blown head gasket.

If your vehicle is producing thick, white smoke, you should refrain from driving it and see a mechanic as soon as possible.

 

Please Note  Your vehicle will fail a Warrant of Fitness (Wof) if there is excessive smoke of any colour coming from the exhaust pipe. This test is normally performed with a warm engine, revved to 2000 rpm for around 20 seconds.

 

Smoky exhaust and engine services in Hamilton

Is smoke coming from your exhaust? If so, we can help you.

Our team of mechanics are able to quickly diagnose exhaust-related issues. We can then provide you with a detailed explanation of what is wrong with your vehicle. If you choose to go forward with fixing the problem, we can provide excellent, high-quality diagnostics and part replacements that you can rely on.

For exhaust diagnostics and replacements in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today.

 

Book Now