If smoke is coming from your car’s engine or exhaust, a mechanic should perform an inspection to first determine the color of the smoke (black, white, blue, or gray) and then replace either the head gasket, cylinder head, engine block, valve stem seal, or piston rings.
Smoke coming from the engine or exhaust can be a critical issue. You want to get this problem immediately resolved so that your car is safe to drive at all times.
Car insurance super app Jerry has everything you need to know about a smoke from engine or exhaust inspection.
Keep in mind that your location is another factor that determines the final cost of repairs. Areas with higher cost of living will usually have more expensive car repair services, especially if there’s less local competition. Check out the table below for an estimate of what Porsche 944 drivers pay in different cities.
| City | Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1983 | $107.05 | $0 | $107.05 | $107.05 | 1h | |
1983 | $131 | $0 | $131 | $131 | 1h | |
1983 | $124 | $0 | $124 | $124 | 1h | |
1983 | $121.56 | $0 | $121.56 | $121.56 | 1h | |
1983 | $111.68 | $0 | $111.68 | $111.68 | 1h | |
1983 | $149.38 | $0 | $149.38 | $149.38 | 1h | |
1983 | $131 | $0 | $131 | $131 | 1h | |
1983 | $132.75 | $0 | $132.75 | $132.75 | 1h | |
1983 | $97.5 | $0 | $97.5 | $97.5 | 1h | |
1983 | $117.13 | $0 | $117.13 | $117.13 | 1h |
The exact cost also varies between different Porsche models years. For example, newer vehicle models are usually made with more expensive materials, so recent or high-end models will cost more, especially if your service requires a part replacement. Use the table below to estimate the cost for your own vehicle.
| Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1984 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1985 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1986 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1987 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1988 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1986 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
What is a smoke from engine or exhaust inspection?
A smoke from engine or exhaust inspection involves a mechanic determining the color of the smoke coming from the tailpipe, then diagnosing the corresponding problem.
- If the smoke is black, then the issue may be less critical. In this case, a mechanic will inspect for a clogged or dirty air filter.
- If the smoke is white, the inspection would include determining if there is a blown head gasket, a faulty cylinder head or it could be a cracked engine block.
- If the smoke is blue or gray, the mechanic would take a careful look to see if there is a malfunctioning valve stem seal or failed piston ring.
How to service smoke from engine or exhaust
Here are the various ways to service smoke coming from an engine or exhaust based on the color of the smoke:
- Smoke is black: The mechanic will replace the air filter as it is either clogged or too dirty. If this doesn’t fix the problem, then a mechanic might have to replace or repair the fuel pressure regulator or the fuel injectors.
- Smoke is white: The mechanic will have to replace either or both of the head gasket or the cylinder head. The repair work could extend to the engine block as it might be cracked.
- Smoke is blue or gray: The valve stem seal will need to be fixed as it might be malfunctioning or the piston rings might need to be fixed or replaced.
How important is a smoke from engine or exhaust inspection?
How critical the issue is and how quickly you should visit your mechanic for an inspection depends on the color of the smoke.
Black smoke is usually the least critical and could even be normal. You should still have it inspected just to be safe.
White smoke is considered to be worrisome and merits an immediate inspection as one of the causes might be a damaged cylinder head, which can compromise your engine.
Gray or blue smoke should prompt you to take your car in for an inspection. At the very least, a mechanic can rule out the possibility of a potentially dangerous issue with your car and its engine.
How to find cheap car insurance
A top priority is to make sure your car is safe to drive and running optimally. Another priority is to make sure you aren’t overpaying for car insurance.
Jerry is a licensed insurance broker that can match you with the coverage that’s right for you at the most affordable price.
Just download the app and register in only 45 seconds. Then, Jerry will present you with quotes from 50+ insurance providers and handle the switchover to the policy of your choice.
Jerry doesn’t just offer fair price repair estimates for Porsche drivers! Our team of writers has collected everything you need to know for every car. Here’s how much the repair costs for some popular cars:
| Car | Total Cost Estimate | Parts Cost | Labor Cost | Average Dealer Price | Estimated Service Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1972 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1993 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1986 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
1974 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
2007 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
2013 | $118 | $0 | $118 | $118 | 1h |
The cost of repairs might vary depending on which Porsche you drive, but there’s an easy way to save money for the services you need! Just download the Jerry app for help lowering your insurance premiums. In less than 45 seconds, Jerry collects all of your information from your existing insurer. Choose from competitive quotes from top insurance companies and Jerry takes care of the rest—securing your new policy and helping you cancel your old one upon request.
With an average annual savings of $887, Jerry can help you free up funds for the repairs your Porsche’s needs.
The content contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.
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