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Dan
Lv 7
Dan asked in Cars & TransportationMaintenance & Repairs · 7 years ago

Car smoke from oil breather?

Hi, I own a Ford Escort 1.3L (1989).

I have noticed that the car has been smoking from the oil breather, and the smoke is also noticeable when you remove the dipstick. It seems to only smoke when the engine is warmed up, the smoke is not alot or that thick but it is there and noticeable (You can see it coming from under the bonnet at night). I did top up the oil to the correct mark a few days ago, today I have checked it again & it's still at the same level. However, I have noticed that I can smell hints of petrol when I smell the breather filter, and also when I remove the oil filling cap. The water / antifreeze in radiator is still fine, not milky or anything. No smell from it either. I asked a mechanic what he thinks, and he said that if it's smoking from the breather than the engine is probably tired and at its end. Just wondering what are peoples opinions on this? I was going to replace the oil and see how it goes, but I'm not sure if it'll help. Thank You.

Update:

Edit; I did notice that the coolant / anti-freeze level had dropped a little in the reservoir, and the exhaust does have a little white smoke at times. Am I right in thinking possible head gasket failure?..

Update 2:

Edit 2; When I checked the engine oil on the dipstick, I didn't notice anything strange as it looks fine and remains the usual colour. The car also still has great power.

4 Answers

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  • 1wbrockstar2004
    Lv 6
    7 years ago
    Favourite answer

    Make sure the pcv valve is functioning properly and check all hoses that are connected to the complete pcv system for clogs.Its imperative that the pcv system is functioning properly.A clogged pcv system can cause 1) Increased oil consumption

    2) Contaminated or diluted oil from sludge, moisture,and acid buildup in the crankcase and valve covers 3) Blow-by vapors from the oil filler tube or breather cap,valve cover gasket,dipstick tube and other openings in the crankcase 4) Rich or erratic operation at idle and low speeds.

    Crankcase blow-by can frequently clog the air filter with oil.The air filter should be replaced more frequently due to the fact that high mileage vehicles tend to have more blow-by which causes the air filter to get contaminated by oil.Some vehicles also have a crankcase air filter mounted below or inline with the pcv valve.Check hoses for leaks,cracks,dry rot,and soft rubber which indicates the hose is bad.The pcv valve should suck your finger to it when functional

    Source(s): Remove pcv valve from mounted location,let engine idle,place your finger over the end of valve.If valve suctions your finger to it and the valve rattles when shaking it,the pcv valve is good and system is functioning properly.
  • ?
    Lv 5
    7 years ago

    you have whats known as blow by, a small amount of compession is leaking down past the piston rings, its not uncommon on a engine with many miles, c/k the pcv valve, most times a hose connects to the air flter and the fumes are sucked in thru the intake

  • Anonymous
    7 years ago

    If it is running ok just keep driving till it blows up or fails its mot.

  • Bazza
    Lv 7
    7 years ago

    It's shot. Trade it in. Any Ford is knackered at 25 years.

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