Hello Everyone,

I have a 96 2.5TL. I get white smoke out of the exhaust when I stop at a stop light for a minute or so but there is no smoke while driving. I have monitored the water level in the radiator for the past two months and it doesnt get lower. Also, oil level doesnt drop. At first I thought it might be a blown head gasket but I dont think so. The smoke is probably due to extra gas pushed into the engine in Idle condition. I changed the gas pressure regulator, O2 sensors and EGR valve but the problem persest. I think the problem is in the timing so I am going to replace the TB this week. My question is, Does anybody know how to replace the anti-knock sensors? I must have filled regular gas at some gas pumps where there is no self service. This might have caused degradation of the anti-knock sensors and I can hear a bit of clicking or knocking sound in the engine.

thanks

 

Pure white smoke is steam from water. If smoke is light blue-gray, it's oil smoke and may be due to leaking valve stem seals.

Symptoms of leaking valve stem seals w/ a fully warmed engine are smoking at idle w/ a puff-puff-puff stream of intermittent smoke and an initial billowing of smoke when you first accelerate after a prolonged idle. No smoke at steady speed. Oil loss may be quite small, perhaps 1 qt/ 500-1000 miles.

Perhaps in a cool climate, and fuel mixture is rich you may get some water vapor smoke at idle. Most times a rich mixiture causes black, sooty smoke at idle.

Make sure PCV hose is not blocked.

Some valve noise is normal at startup and w/ cold engine and doesn't cause a problem. Valve noise should stop when engine is warmed.

Knock sensors are monitored by OBD system and will set a code of they are not responding.

good luck