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I have only recently noticed that when I first start my car in the mornings and when the engine has cooled down a bit that some white smoke initially comes out the exhaust when started.

What could be the cause of this?

I also sometimes find the van very hard to start when it’s slightly cold outside. How could I fix this problem also?

Thanks
Jack

Hi there,
It is fairly usual for a vehicle to have moisture in the exhaust which turns to steam out the tailpipe when the vehicle is started- if it doesn't go away and you are having to top up the engine oil or coolant then there could be a more serious problem.
With a Diesel engine vehicle, they have glow plugs to help the vehicle start when it's cold, if any stop working, the vehicle will get harder and harder to start in the morning and when it does there can be a bit of smoke.
So if both questions are for the same vehicle, the glow plugs could be the first place to look.

Thanks for the quick reply.

It seems out put out this very small white smoke when first started but then doesn’t smoke again.

We haven’t been driving it as much as we was before. Could that be effecting it or not?

Is there anyway of me being able to check the glow plugs myself?

Jack

Hi Jack,
The less a vehicle is used, the more potential for moisture/condensation build-up in the exhaust, so it could be. The glow plugs will need to be removed and power put on them to see if they glow red. It's not a difficult thing to do, but if you are not careful they can break off in the cylinder head and then it's a major task to remedy.

Cool. Do you know how much it would cost to get them checked?

Sorry Jack, you may need to call one of our Auto Centres for that one. http://locations.aa.co.nz/aa-auto-centre