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Grey Smoke from Exhaust on Startup – Causes and Fix?

Auto Parts and Accessories · December 4, 2022

When you start the engine, you may see grey smoke coming from the exhaust. If it goes away right away, it was probably just condensation building up and not something serious. However, transmission fluid burning is the most common reason for gray smoke from exhaust on startup.

Grey smoke on startup may indicate that there is too much oil heating inside the engine or that the turbo needs to be serviced. Too much fuel, inadequate air, not enough time for the fuel to ignite properly, or poor quality fuel might be some causes to blame for grey smoke.

Grey Smoke from Exhaust on Startup

What Is Grey Smoke From Exhaust? 

Grey smoke may be a sign that the fire is spitting and running out of fuel. This is actually steam, or water vapor, rather than the actual smoke. 

As your engine warms up, condensation that has accumulated in the exhaust overnight may transform to vapor.

Causes of Grey Smoke from the Exhaust on Startup

Causes of Grey Smoke from the Exhaust on Startup

Grey smoke is frequently caused by damaged valve sealing, blocked piston rings, using poor engine oil, or using incorrect oil viscosity. 

Smoke coming from the exhaust of diesel engines may be caused by issues with the fuel line and malfunctioning glow plugs, particularly the high-pressure pumping.

The usage of poor-quality diesel fuel typically speeds up these reasons. Whatever the color of the smoke that appears in the exhaust during startup, especially if the engine is cold, there may be a possible problem that has to be investigated.

Moreover, some of the reasons are stated below–

  • Damaged valve seals
  • Overlapping piston rings
  • Dripping from the exhaust
  • Inadequate engine sensors
  • Cylinder head gasket that is worn or harmed

Effective Solutions to Treat Grey Smoke on the Startup Issue

The following inspections must be made if, for any reason, you notice grey smoke coming from the exhaust.

Inspect the Piston Rings and Engine Pressure

Inspect the Piston Rings and Engine Pressure

If the compression of the piston ring is low, the causes must be there. Problems are frequently resolved by removing carbon accumulation from the piston and rings. It makes sense to replace the piston rings if you detect continuous excessive oil consumption.

Look Over the Valve Seals

You can start with the valve seals once you start performing these tests. The life of the valve seals will be prolonged by applying elevated engine oil once more.

Injector Condition Checking

Poor diesel injectors are another reason for grey smoke coming from the exhaust. So it will be convenient to check this. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is grey exhaust smoke typical?

Gray exhaust smoke indicates an oil-burning issue, and there is definitely an oil leak. Numerous problems, including worn cylinder walls, leaking valve seals, and fractured piston rings, might be to blame for the issue. An experienced technician may solve the problem through proper investigation. 

Conclusion 

The main reasons for gray smoke coming from exhaust on startup vary based on your car and how it is maintained. Any apparent exhaust fumes are probably nothing to worry about if your automobile is kept up well and maintained on a daily basis. 

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Filed Under: Auto Parts and Accessories

Robert M. Hunt

I am a certified Automobile Mechanic and working for years in this field. I love what I do and also love to share with people. Here in Autosquare.com I am sharing my automotive parts experties with real life solution. Good time!

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