Smoke Signals

If your car spits out a cloud of smoke when started, it might be trying to tell you something important. What does a color of the smoke indicate? The exhaust color can give many clues:

• White - If it lasts for a short time, it could be moisture in the cold engine and exhaust system being burned off. if there's a lot of white smoke and it continues, check for an internal coolant leak.
• Blue or Blue/Black - Oil is likely being burned along with the fuel. Have your car checked for worn piston rings or it could be as simple as too low of oil viscosity.
• Black - Excess fuel is being burned.