Though a car might be complex machinery, taking care of the car is a relatively simple and straightforward task. However, what is difficult is understanding the problem, this understanding of a problem is what differentiates a good and a mediocre mechanic.
That being said, a little understanding of the common signs can also help a commoner understand issues in a car. As such, here’s how you can determine the health of your car by identifying the smell and colour of your car’s smoke.
If your car is seen emitting blue-coloured smoke, it usually indicates the burning of oil in the combustion chamber of the car. This could mean worn-out piston rings, faulty valve seals or even a malfunctioning positive crankcase ventilation system.
The emission of white smoke is a more common issue in cars, and it indicates the presence of water or coolant in the combustion chamber. This issue could relate to a cracked cylinder head, blown gasket or a damaged intake manifold.
The emission of black smoke is another common issue in cars. This problem is caused due to rich fuel-air mixture. Usually, this problem is the result of a malfunctioning oxygen sensor but it could also arise due to a faulty injector or clogged air filter.
One could also check the health of a car by identifying the smell of exhaust smoke. In fact, a burning smell usually indicates oil entering the combustion chamber and a rotten smell indicates issues with the catalytic converter.
Sometimes the exhaust pressure of the car could be low and it is a matter of concern. This is because the reduced exhaust pressure could be an indicator of an obstructed exhaust system and this could lead to multiple problems in the engine.
A car’s exhaust smoke is a great indicator of your car’s health. Understanding the exhaust smoke will give a better understanding of the issue and this understanding of the issue will help rectify the issue more efficiently.