1996 volvo 850 turbo-white smoke occationaly at idle

nelag · Post by **nelag** » 05 Aug 2007, 22:40

have a 1996 volvo 850 turbo on occation-like at the drive through at the bank I will see white smoke with a hint of blue at an idle,but it doesnt get worse when I drive off,my fluid levels are full.Its a lot of smoke when it happens but it doesnt happen offten

TurningWorm · Post by **TurningWorm** » 06 Aug 2007, 10:44

I have a very similar problem with my 1994 850. I haven't solved it yet, but I think it's related to engine temps in my case because the gauge always seems to be just a little above the middle when it happens. I would be curious if you have noticed anything similar? I used to have a Tempo (shudder..) that would smoke a little when the engine as running too hot. I was planning to replace the thermostat to see if it helped.

Post by **MadeInJapan** » 06 Aug 2007, 11:29

If your temp. gauge is anywhere above the very middle, I would replace the thermostat. However, if you're getting a lack of power with your car, you could have a cylinder that is allowing blow-by. This will happen with older cars and not much you can do about it without an engine rebuild, or you could try using a slightly thicker oil.