Is there anything more nerve-wracking than seeing smoke pour from your car? Fords are known for being reliable cars, so when it starts raising alarms, it’s usually time for a trip to the mechanic.
Your car exhaust shouldn’t be noticeable most of the time – however, if you’re having issues, you might see blue, white or even black smoke. Here’s how to know what different types of exhaust smoke might mean for your Ford.
White smoke
White smoke is easily the most common form of smoke from an exhaust. However, this isn’t actually even smoke – it’s water vapour that is produced when a cold engine is started and begins to heat up. On its own, white smoke isn’t usually a problem.
However, you might start seeing problems if you’re only using your car for short journeys. When your car only goes on quick trips, the exhaust system doesn’t get to warm up all the way. The condensation builds up inside the system and can corrode the inside steel of the exhaust and cause rust.
Also, if this white smoke continues well after you’ve started up the car, you might have some serious issues, including a blown head gasket, a damaged cylinder head, or a cracked engine block.
Black smoke
Seeing black smoke coming from your exhaust? Chances are that you’re immediately in panic mode. But black smoke doesn’t always have to mean disaster.
If you’re seeing a burst of smoke from your exhaust that then clears after start-up, this is normal for some cars. However, you should always check with your mechanic just to be safe.
Like white smoke, if the black smoke continues well after your car has warmed up to operating temperature, then you should definitely get it checked out. You might have an issue with your sensors, injection system or fuel line not functioning as they should. If you ignore the problem, you may not only put your safety at risk, but also consume way more fuel than usual.
Blue smoke
Blue smoke (which may also seem gray or purple) is usually an issue with the oil. Your car may struggle to accelerate (especially if it’s a turbocharged car – as blue smoke can indicate issues with the turbocharger) or lose power entirely. You may smell burning.
For normal petrol-powered cars, blue smoke indicates that the car is burning oil, meaning that oil has leaked into your engine’s combustion chamber. This may be a result of a malfunctioning valve seals or worn piston rings. This means you will likely need to get new seals. Costs can vary quite a bit, but as the engine may need to be taken apart, it can be a bit on the pricier side.
However, getting the issue fixed as quickly as possible – before it worsens – will ensure that you save costs down the line.
If I’m seeing smoke from my Ford’s engine, what should I do?
If you’re experienced some of the issues listed above, and you’re concerned, you should get your car to a mechanic for a service as soon as possible. Even if you’re not really concerned and your car appears to be functioning as normal, it’s always worth getting an expert to have a look over it.
Our mechanics at Advanced Auto Wreckers are experienced in what they do, with a special focus on Holdens and Fords, and will be able to provide you with support and advice when you need it. If there’s a part that needs replacing, we supply second hand auto parts that come with a three-month warranty if installed by us. We have a wide range of Ford parts, and we thoroughly test used car parts for safety and efficiency before we sell or install them.
Book your car in with us by enquiring through our website or give us a call on (08) 9459 8155.