Changing a car’s engine oil is one of the most important routine maintenance practices. It has a significant impact on the vehicle’s overall performance and longevity.
However, this is not always true if a smoking engine follows the oil change.
A smoking engine after an oil change can indicate a problem with the oil, the oil-changing process, or the engine itself.
In some cases, the problem can be temporary and resolve itself within minutes. However, if the smoking persists, take the car to a trusted mechanic for inspection and repair.
In this article, we will discuss why the engine can smoke after an oil change and what you can do about it. Keep reading.
Why is Smoke Emitted after an Oil Change?
Smoke after an oil change can occur because of several reasons. Here are some possibilities:
Burning Off of Excess Oil
Sometimes, you might add excess oil to the oil pan during an oil change. Should this happen, the extra oil may burn off, producing smoke when the engine is started.
The condition is temporary and should stop after a few minutes of driving.
Using the Wrong Type of Oil
Some vehicles use synthetic oil, while others use conventional oil. Using the wrong type of oil in your car can cause smoking, as the oil may not lubricate and protect the engine.
Always consult the owner’s manual on the correct oil type and viscosity before adding new oil to your engine.
Leaking Oil
If there is a leak in the oil system or the engine, oil can drip onto a hot surface and burn to produce smoke. This is a serious problem that requires the eyes of a trusted mechanic as soon as possible.
Residual Oil on the Engine
If oil spills onto the engine block or other hot surfaces during an oil change, it may burn off and produce smoke when the engine is started.
This is also a temporary condition that should subside after some minutes of driving.
Worn Engine Parts
Smoke can signify worn engine parts like valve seals and piston rings. When these parts wear down, oil can leak into the combustion chamber, burn and produce smoke.
This serious problem may demand engine repair or replacement.
How to Stop a Car from Smoking After an Oil Change
Clean the Engine
Cleaning the engine is the best way to stop the car from smoking due to oil spills. Use an engine cleaner or a degreaser to remove the spills on the engine or exhaust manifold.
This will help prevent further smoking and help you identify any leak source.
Drain Excess Engine Oil
If you have checked the oil level and the dipstick shows too much oil in the pan, drain it. To complete the process, place a pan underneath the oil pan and remove the drain plug to allow the extra oil to drain.
Replace the drain plug and ensure it is tight.
Check for Leaks
Check out the engine if you suspect a leak is causing the smoke. Inspect for any leaks around the oil pan and valve covers.
You can also crawl under the car and look for leaks around the oil pan, filter, or drain plug. Tighten the bolts on the oil pan, the plug, or the filter.
If you still cannot find the source of the leak after a thorough inspection, take the vehicle to a trusted mechanic for further diagnosis.
Replace Worn Out or Damaged Components
If any components, such as the gaskets and seals, are damaged or worn, replace them immediately to stop oil leaks.
Without the leaks, there will be no oil to burn hence no smoke.
Use the Correct Oil Type
Using the wrong oil type can cause smoking after an oil change because the oil may be unable to lubricate the engine.
The only solution is to check the original manufacturer’s oil type recommendation for your car’s engine. You can also consult a qualified mechanic for the best oil for your vehicle.
Can wrong engine oil cause smoke?
Yes, using the wrong engine oil can lead to several problems, including smoking. Oil that is too thin or without the necessary additives may not lubricate the engine components. This will lead to overheating and smoking.
Additionally, the wrong engine oil can cause smoking by not cooling the engine.
Why is my car’s exhaust smoking after an oil change?
If your vehicle’s exhaust is smoking after an oil change, it could happen for several reasons, including overfilled oil, leaks, the wrong type of oil, or a faulty PCV valve.
Other underlying engine problems, like worn piston rings, a cracked cylinder head, or a faulty turbocharger, can cause the exhaust to smoke after an oil change.
Will a car smoke if it needs oil?
When a car’s engine has no oil at all, the moving components in the engine can rub against each other, resulting in friction and heat.
This can make the engine overheat and burn any remaining oil, causing smoke emissions from the exhaust pipe.
Can an old engine cause smoke?
Yes, an old engine can cause smoke from the exhaust pipe.
An old engine will most likely have worn-out or damaged internal components such as piston rings, seals, gaskets, and valve guides.
The worn components can leak oil into the combustion chamber, creating smoke emissions.
Moreover, an old engine may have contaminants on its internal parts, which can interfere with its functioning and cause smoke discharge.
Why is my engine smoking after rebuild?
If your engine is smoking after a rebuild, it could be because of improper installation of engine components such as the valve seals, cylinder head gasket, or piston rings.
An engine can also smoke after a rebuild if it is not properly broken in after the rebuild. During the break-in period, avoid high RPMs and follow the owner’s recommendation for oil and filter changes.
Will an oil change stop smoke?
An oil change will only stop smoke if a low oil level in the oil pan, old oil, or contaminated oil causes the smoke emission.
Why is my car blowing white smoke at the exhaust?
A crack in the engine block deck, a cracked cylinder head, or a damaged head gasket may cause white smoke at the exhaust.
It can also result from using the wrong oil, condensation in the exhaust system, or excess oil in the pan.
Is it safe to drive a car with a smoking engine?
No, it is unsafe to drive a smoking car as it can risk the life of the driver and passengers. It can also cause further engine damage.
A smoking engine can be a sign of overheating, or a malfunctioning oil pump, among other engine-related problems. These issues can lead to engine failure and loss of control when driving, which can be dangerous.
