Help me diagnose smoky exhaust

Hi all I've been driving my new-to-me 2008 Tacoma 4x4 for about a week and noticed that it would some times smoke quite a bit even when warm.

I know the common diagnosis is that I have a coolant leak but I've made the following observations
- my coolant level has maintained its full level
- the truck doesn't over heat even when idling for extended periods
- the exhaust doesn't smell sweet
- the tach is solid at idle

I have read that it's possible (on other cars) for either transmission oil or power steering oil to get into the intake via various leaks. I know for sure my power steering fluid was low when I got the truck and always suspected a leak somewhere. Is it possible for power steering fluid to find its way into the intake on Tacomas?

What about transmission fluid?

 

what color smoke?

 

I will agree.

Is it white smoke or is it steam?

I have 2007 and it "smokes" in cold weather.

what you can do is, park on a hill where the right side of the truck lower than the left.
why?, because that is where your exhaust is located if it's stock exhauste.
This will help the water drain down the exhaust faster so you can see it.
If you see water than most likely it is condensation. You may not see water even then. It could be in the muffler.

If there is less smoke once the truck has been run for a while. It's most likely condensation.

If you are not burning oil. (Check your oil level) It's most likely condesation.

My truck does just about what you are describing in the winter. It is the hot exhaust meeting the cold air.

I would not worry about it. Wait until warmer weather and see if it still does it.
I highly doubt it will.

 

Yes the smoke is white. I wouldn't be concerned except it continues well beyond initial start up...

Even at the end of my 1hr commute, it still smokes a bit. How does condensation stay in the exhaust system so persistently?

 

bump?

 

After long running period it's less condensation than it is water vapor in the exhaust hitting the cold air.

 

After an hour of driving the condensation in the exhaust should be fully burned off/ evaporated. I'd definitely check the oil in the truck periodically to see if its burning oil... but even so it probably wouldnt be white smoke. how many miles on the truck?

 

You're probably seeing water vapor from the combusted fuel. It condenses into "smoke" when it meets the cooler air. Remain vigilant in checking your fluids and you will be fine. What you are seeing is normal in cooler temps.

If you notice a change in your fluid levels or the smoke changes color, then you have reason for concern.

 

Hmmm that makes sense I guess. I'll keep an eye on fluids.

 

hobo test: taste a drop, then spit it out

if it is sweet, it is coolant

 

Power Steering Fluid is not connected to the intake. No you are not burning power steering fluid.