Whether you just parked in the driveway or have a long journey ahead, smoke or steam billowing from your vehicle could be a reason to reach out for towing service. A damaged part can cause peculiar emissions, as well as the loss of fuel economy, acceleration issues, and additional concerns that make driving unreliable and unsafe. Be prepared for your discussion with an auto repair technician by learning the reasons cars emit smoke and steam and what the different colors mean. 

Why Is Steam Coming Out of My Car?

There could be numerous reasons why steam is coming out of the car, so pay attention to the location. For example, it’s normal to see steam coming from the tailpipe. It’s just the water vapor being released from condensation in the exhaust system. Steam under the hood should be cause for concern, as it could mean the engine is overheating. Before a fire starts, pull over, turn off the car, and call a towing service provider for help. 

White Smoke Indicates a Coolant Leak

Fuel and other substances burned in the combustion chamber will seep out of the tailpipe as smoke. If a head gasket is blown or a cylinder head is cracked, coolant could leak into the chamber and mix with burning fuel. When this happens, you’ll notice thick clouds of white smoke coming from the tailpipe.

Black Smoke Is Caused by Excessive Fuel Burning

If there is a damaged fuel injector or another problem with the fuel system, the car could burn more fuel than necessary. This is also the case when a vacuum leak occurs. This causes more air to enter the engine, disrupting the air to fuel ratio. More fuel is released to compensate. Burning too much fuel at once causes black exhaust to seep from the tailpipe.  

Blue Smoke Is Caused by Oil Burning With Fuel 

If you see blue exhaust smoke coming from the tailpipe, issues with the engine could be to blame. When seals and gaskets are corroded and worn, the oil will drip into the cylinders and mix with the fuel. Burning oil and fuel creates blue exhaust smoke. A towing service technician will take the car to a mechanic. Your mechanic will replace damaged engine components to prevent oil leaks and fuel contamination.

Driving a car that is smoking and/or steaming could be potentially dangerous to everyone on the road. If this happens to you, contact the crew at Tomah Wrecker & Repair. Located in Tomah, WI, the company has been providing prompt, convenient towing service and 24-hour roadside assistance in the Monroe County area for over 50 years. See how the team can help during an emergency online or call (608) 372-2550 for assistance. Find other reasons for common car troubles on Facebook.