What Does Excessive Exhaust Smoke Mean?

As your car runs it produces emissions that contains fumes that are very poisonous to people, or any oxygen-breathing being for that matter. The exhaust system in your car prevents these gases from getting into the passenger area and it also helps to improve fuel efficiency by monitoring the makeup of your vehicle's emissions and calculating the correct air/fuel mixture based on the readings. But you can monitor your exhaust as well and likely determine if engine trouble is occurring! If you see excess smoke being emitted from the tailpipe take note of the color, as it may indicate the problem within your car's engine. These are the most common colors of exhaust and what they may mean for your vehicle.

Black Exhaust

black auto exhaust smoke

If your car is producing thick, black exhaust it often indicates the burning of excess amounts of gas. This is usually caused by a faulty MAF sensor, which measures the amount of incoming air and calculates the proper amount of gasoline to mix with it to create a properly running engine. If it malfunctions it can cause your vehicle to run rich, which is another name for using too much gasoline. Not only will this lower your vehicle's fuel economy, it can also cause other engine problems, including burnt valves, a problem that may require expensive engine repair.

 

Blue Exhaust

Oil burns blue. That means blue exhaust is more than likely the result of an oil leak that is causing oil to be fired up inside the engine. This is a cause for mass concern as burning oil indicates there's not enough oil in the motor to properly lubricate it in order to run right! The final result will be an engine that is oil starved and may seize and quit working due to excessive metal on metal friction!

White Exhaust

white auto exhaust smoke

White clouds of smoke coming out of the rear of your car often are a result of a coolant leak inside the engine that is allowing the coolant to burn up in the combustion chamber. A coolant leak puts the vehicle at risk of overheating, which could lead to major engine damage. If the engine is gets too hot the block may actually crack! Before that sort of damage occurs you'll likely experience a plethora of other engine damage requiring extensive repair.

Exhaust smoke can indicate major trouble so if you notice excessive amounts being emitted from your vehicle do yourself a favor and head to your local auto repair shop for engine diagnostics. If you need professional engine repair in Ephrata for your import or domestic vehicle head to Huber's Auto Group. We provide a plethora of auto repair and maintenance services and specialize in European auto repair in Ephrata at our shop where we also conduct auto sales and rentals! Give us a call today at (717) 733-2631 to request an appointment!

Huber's Auto Group Blog

Article List

  • Why are Oil Changes Necessary so Often?  You know the saying, "Change your oil every 3,000 miles," but do you abide by this? While the mileage interval may be different depending on your vehicle and the kind of oil used, it is vital that you always change your oil on time. The health of your vehicle's engine depends on fresh oil. Here are five reasons to never skip or put off oil changes. Removes Engine Grime When you drain old oil from the engine it removes all of the impurities that have made their way inside and turned the oil…

  • Owning a BMW, Audi, Mercedes or other fine German vehicle has its benefits. They are fun to drive and are far more luxurious than most other vehicles on the road. However, like all other vehicles they do require regular care and maintenance, and on some occasions they need repair. So how do you know who to trust with your precious European vehicle? Take these steps to find the perfect German auto repair shop. Referral Do you know anyone that drives a similar vehicle to you, or at least another German vehicle? Ask them about their experiences with local auto repair shops…

  • One of the largest investments you'll likely make in your life, outside of a house or education, will likely be the vehicle you use to get to work, transport the kids to and from school and pick up groceries. You will use your car for everything and you depend on it to be reliable. But your vehicle depends on you for proper auto maintenance and to take care of any necessary repairs that may come about. It's important to constantly be looking for signs of trouble so that you can make an appointment for auto repair before you end up…

  • That rumble from the engine that didn't use to be there but recently started without warning may make your car sound good, but it is likely wreaking havoc on your engine, and possibly your health. The loud rumble is a sure sign of an exhaust leak. Exhaust leaks are dangerous because not only do they cause driveability problems but they allow for the possibility of toxic, colorless and odorless fumes to enter the passenger cabin that can quickly cause a driver to pass out and die. If you experience any of these symptoms of an exhaust leak make an appointment…

  • What does it mean to be a Dealership Alternative? When a person buys a new car they often assume that they must have that new car serviced at the dealership in order to receive proper maintenance and to ensure that their warranty stays valid. This isn't entirely true. While you can't just take your car to any ol' garage, there are auto repair shops that can act as dealership alternatives for all your vehicle maintenance and repair needs and still maintain your manufacturer warranty. Here are few common questions about dealer alternative auto shops that many people ask. What Qualifications…