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2002 Mazda Protege DX 4dr Sedan Auto

2002 Mazda Protege
Trim Info:
Front Wheel Drive, 4 Door Sedan, Compact
25 mpg city / 30 mpg hwy
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December 10, 2012, 8:47 pm

Bill P
 

Question: why the cloud of grey smoke when turning left, only sometimes?

occasionally will puff out cloud of smoke on left turns. a little at cold start as well. not on lift off throttle. not white smoke. suspect clogged oil return passages. will use motor flush asap. replaced pcv valve but could have oil in intake manifold? thanks


December 15, 2012, 12:06 pm

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

If it is grey smoke, it should be fuel related. Oil issues typicality cause blue smoke.

It sounds like a piston ring issue, but I would have to look at it to be sure. I would check compression and if it is low on any cylinder, I would do a leak down test to see if it is a worn ring/taper cylinder issue.


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