Do you have smoke coming from your car’s tailpipe? More than likely, this is something to take note of. In fact, exhaust smoke could signify a major problem with your car’s operation.

Much like your doctor can determine your health based on your output, our ASE-certified technicians can gain insight into the health of your car based on the color of your exhaust smoke.

So what does the color of your exhaust smoke mean? Our Michigan auto experts answer four exhaust system questions regularly heard at our car shop in Grand Rapids.

Should my exhaust smoke be white?

If the smoke in your exhaust is white and thin, it could be nothing to worry about. The heat heading through the pipes will often meet the condensation built up inside of your car’s exhaust system and create steam. Steam is not generally a problem.

On the other hand, thick, white exhaust smoke could be an issue. White exhaust smoke could indicate:

• A cold engine
• Leaking head gasket
• Cracked block
• Cracked cylinder head

Thick, white exhaust smoke could lead to overheating and put your engine at serious risk of damage. If this is the case, call our Grand Rapids auto repair shop for an inspection immediately.

What does blue exhaust smoke mean?

If your car has blue smoke coming from the exhaust, your engine is burning oil.

There are two possible reasons why engine oil is being burned:

• The valve guide seals or piston rings are worn out
• Oil will leak into the combustion chamber

Blue exhaust smoke requires immediate attention. If your car is releasing blue smoke, call our automotive shop for an appointment today.

What causes black and gray exhaust smoke?

Black or gray exhaust smoke typically means means the engine is burning too much fuel. This could be caused by several factors, most commonly related to incomplete fuel combustion.

If your car has a gasoline engine, the reasons typically include:

• Clogged air filter
• Clogged fuel injectors
• Blocked manifold
• Leaking oil

If your vehicle has a diesel engine, the likely causes include:

• Malfunctioning fuel injector
• The wrong grade of fuel
• An overheating engine
• The ignition timing is off

A car or truck burning too much fuel wastes gas and costs you money. Schedule a visit with Christian Brothers Automotive Grand Rapids for a solution today.

Schedule exhaust system service with our Grand Rapids auto shop

If you ever see exhaust smoke coming from your vehicle, it’s time to pay attention. Make sure your car is running as it should with an exhaust system inspection. Call Christian Brothers Automotive in Grand Rapids, Michigan to schedule an appointment today.