[Scott.hanson]

I have 2000 Saab 9-3 that is blowing smoke. I know, I know. Typical signs of the turbo going out. However, the reason I am writing in here is to ask a question about it...I just recently purchased it, I do not have service history of the vehicle, and I do not know what kind of oil has been used. I work for a Cadillac/Saab garage and had them change the oil. We used regular conventional oil and also changed the plugs. About 5 days after that, the white smoke started. My question is...would this be caused if synthetic oil had been used for the previous oil changes with a heavier weight and then switch to conventional? If I drain and put a synthetic heavier weight oil in, would it help the situation?

I need help!!! Thanks in advance guys!!

 

['97 Saab SE Turbo]

White smoke usually means the engine is burning water (or antifreeze), blue smoke means oil and black smoke is carbon (very rich). I'm surprised that the Saab mechanics didn't comment on the white smoke.

Check to make sure that you're not loosing antifreeze. Then, if it's been cold, it might just be condensation burning out of the exhaust... Ron

 

[Scott.hanson]

I kind of thought the same thing. There are no visible leaks under the car. If its burning anti-freeze, what do you think the culprit could be? Any possibilities? I know you cant see the car, so I understand that, but I'm just a little confused.

 

[Pontius DIO]

Synthetic oil is used as it handles the added heat of the oil as well as the turbo sharing the engine oil better than conventional. When my turbo went, the oil was grey-ish white and it was only burning oil off in the exhaust housing. Oil being burnt has a unique smell over coolant being burnt. Have your shop inspect.