Did you know that the changing colours of car exhaust could indicate a few things? It could mean nothing or a sign of a problem with the vehicle components.
Typically, there are four unusual exhaust colours emitted from the tailpipe, and each of them indicates different problems.
Read on as we share the types and colours of exhaust emissions, what they could mean, and what you should do if you notice them.
Black exhaust smoke
Have you seen extreme black exhaust smoke that interferes with your visibility on the road?
Black exhaust smoke may be due to insufficient air in your car engine. This will, in turn, increase the need for excess fuel for the combustion process. As a result, you can see black smoke coming from the exhaust.
Please have your air filter checked immediately if your exhaust smoke is black. There might be a clog or damage to the fuel injector. You may clean the filter or replace it with a new one.
However, if the filter is still in good condition despite the black smoke, there might be something wrong with the fuel injector, manifold, or other components.
In this case, it is better to send your vehicle to a workshop for a check-up to address the problem.
Blue exhaust smoke
Blue exhaust smoke usually indicates an oil leak and that the engine is burning oil. The leak could be caused by several issues like leaking valve seals or damaged piston rings.
The blue smoke emitted from the tailpipe while speeding may indicate that the piston ring has suffered damage caused by the cylinder.
For your safety purpose, immediately have your car inspected at a workshop.
White exhaust smoke
It is considered normal when the exhaust coming from your vehicle is light white. This type of smoke is typically like water vapour when you first start your vehicle.
However, you need to pay attention to it if the smoke turns thick white.
Thick white exhaust smoke indicates a leaking head gasket. It also means that lubricating oil has entered the combustion chamber as well as damaged your vehicle’s engine.
Do not hesitate to have your car checked by an expert to avoid further damage.
Grey exhaust smoke
Grey exhaust smoke may either indicate burning of transmission oil from the cylinders or damage to the piston rings.
The grey exhaust may also indicate a problem with the turbocharger components (if the car uses a turbo engine) or that the engine uses too much fuel.
Waiting too long to fix the problems could cost you repairs. Therefore, immediately get your car inspected if your exhaust turns grey.
Always monitor your car exhaust colour
We hope the information above helps you address the concerns that may arise by looking at the colour of your exhaust smoke.
Please take immediate action if you find your exhaust smoke changing in colour. It may be due to an oil leak, broken engine part, a clogged filter, or other problems.
Remember, putting off a repair could result in costly damage.
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