Times When Vehicle Exhaust Is a Bad Thing
There are times when vehicle exhaust can be a bad thing. Techway Automotive advises that if you see excess exhaust flowing out of the tailpipe, your engine is suffering from a severe fluid leak. This can damage the engine beyond repair in some cases. Technically, you should never see your exhaust. It should be clear after it has been treated by the catalytic converter. If you see exhaust that is any of the colors listed below, bring your vehicle to our shop right away so we can get to the bottom of the problem and fix it. It may be safer to have your automobile towed to our shop.
Black
One reason why it is safer to opt for a tow is that if you see a ton of black exhaust flowing out of the tailpipe, your engine is hemorrhaging gasoline or diesel fuel. This can cause an engine fire. In fact, in severe cases, you may also see flames or sparks coming out of the tailpipe. It’s important that you avoid driving your automobile if it is releasing excess black exhaust. Driving it could start an engine fire.
Blue
You also shouldn’t drive your automobile if it is releasing a ton of blue exhaust out of the tailpipe. This is a sign that the engine is burning away motor oil that is leaking most likely into the cylinder block via a cracked head gasket. If you continue to drive your automobile when it is leaking excess oil, you will drain the engine of the oil and damage it beyond repair. Opt for a tow to our shop if your car, truck, or utility vehicle is releasing blue exhaust smoke out of the tailpipe. In some cases, this exhaust might also look gray.
White
Finally, excess white exhaust can also be a bad thing. This is a sign that the engine is hemorrhaging coolant. Naturally, this will cause the engine to overheat and you may end up with white smoke coming out from underneath the hood, as well. You don’t need us to tell you that it’s a bad idea to drive your automobile when the engine is overheating. Continuing to drive it can cause serious damage including a cracked engine block. Call for a tow to our shop.
Techway Automotive in Blakely, GA, or Opp or Dothan, AL, would be happy to get to the bottom of the excess exhaust that is flowing out of your vehicle’s tailpipe. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment for your automobile.