Re: Sulphur smell and white smoke at cold idle.... (archive)

Jim,
If the white smoke persists after 5 minutes of running it is in my opinion most definitely moisture in the combustion somewhere from something and if it is from a broken or cracked anything it will continue after 5 minutes of running and will almost always cause the car to register hot on the temp guage. If it goes away after a minute or two to three then it is most likely as you say some sort of residual from sitting and it would be interesting to note if it did it mainly after the car had sat for several days other than just for overnight. Regardless if it continually blows white even only for a minute or two it is a definite indication that something somewhere is not quite right and should be found.
Kurt.G

Yes, there is a TSB on the sulphar smell. Essentially it says that hydrogen-sulfide is produced by the catalytic converter under load and depending upon the sulphur content of the gas you are using. In other words, either don't drive the car hard or don't use high sulphur gas or both.

The white smoke coming out at cold idle SHOULD be steam. There is almost always condensation build-up during the night in the gas lines. This is normal and all cars do it. It can also make the car run a little rich until the moisture is all purged from the system. White smoke is not bad as long as it does not persist after the engine if fully warmed up. If so, then most likely a cracked head gasket or under REALLY bad conditions a cracked head or block (hope it isn't that!). Hope this helps.

Jim S.
'92 Laguna Green 850i 6spd

Follow Ups:

[ Follow Ups ] [ 8-series (E31) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]

Questions, comments, or problems, please visit the Roadfly help desk.