There are many indicators of your vehicle’s health. Did you know car exhaust color is one of them? We typically think of car smoke as pretty straightforward, but there are ways to evaluate this to cue you in on how your car’s really running. In fact,  your tailpipe can tell you a lot about how your car is handling the roads! When it comes to smoke, any color other than pale white may not be entirely normal for your car. Here’s what your car may be trying to tell you when its exhaust is out of whack.

Blue/Gray Smoke

This odd type of smoke most likely signals an oil leak, or that your engine is actually burning oil. From a leaking valve seal, to worn cylinder walls, there are many possible causes of trouble. Speak to your mechanic to get to the bottom of the issue, posthaste.

Black Smoke

If you assumed that black smoke means bad things for your car, you’re totally right! This can happen if your car is burning too much fuel, which is often caused by anything from a clogged air filter to a blocked manifold or bum fuel injection system. Get your car checked sooner rather than later to avoid some impending performance issues.

Persistant Thick White/Gray Smoke

If your car is frequently omitting thick gray or white smoke, you could have a leaking head gasket on your hands. This could lead to overheating during summer, which can quickly turn into a problem. Furthermore, this type of smoke could also uncover a cracked block or cylinder head, which are major issues that warrant immediate repair. Don’t wait!

Got more car care questions? We can help! Our RGV dealerships are home to a trained staff eager to answer your questions. Visit one of our valleywide dealerships, or call to schedule an appointment with our service department. At our Payne auto dealerships, you’re sure to find an experience you can count on.