FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Third Generation (2014-2019)/why does my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) emit smoke from the exhaust?

why does my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) emit smoke from the exhaust?

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Severity: highDifficulty: hard4-8 hours
3 min read
549 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix engine smoke issues in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
4-8 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Blue or gray smoke visible from the exhaust
  • •Increased oil consumption
  • •Unusual engine noises (knocking or ticking)
  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Rough idle or engine stalling
  • •Strong smell of burnt oil

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any engine faults.
  2. 2Inspect the oil level and condition to check for signs of contamination or excessive consumption.
  3. 3Check the coolant level and inspect for signs of oil in the coolant, indicating a possible head gasket failure.
  4. 4Conduct a visual inspection of the exhaust system for any leaks or damage.
  5. 5Perform a compression test to evaluate the engine’s internal condition.
  6. 6Inspect the PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) system for blockages or malfunctions.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on electrical components.
  • Allow the engine to cool if it has been running.

2. Addressing Oil Consumption

  1. Replace Valve Seals:

    • Remove the valve cover using a socket set.
    • Replace old valve seals with new ones, ensuring proper seating.
    • Reinstall the valve cover and torque to manufacturer specifications (typically around 7-10 Nm).
  2. Replace Piston Rings (if necessary):

    • Remove the engine from the vehicle for easier access.
    • Disassemble the engine block to access the pistons.
    • Replace worn piston rings with new ones, ensuring proper orientation and installation.
    • Reassemble the engine and torque all components to manufacturer specifications.

3. Addressing Head Gasket Failure

  1. Replace Head Gasket:
    • Remove the intake and exhaust manifolds.
    • Unbolt and remove the cylinder head.
    • Clean the surfaces thoroughly to remove old gasket material.
    • Install a new head gasket and reassemble the cylinder head with proper torque (typically around 25-30 Nm in a specific sequence).
    • Reinstall manifolds and reconnect all components.

4. Inspecting and Replacing PCV Valve

  1. Inspect PCV Valve:

    • Locate the PCV valve in the engine compartment.
    • Remove the valve and check for clogs or damage.
  2. Replace if necessary:

    • Install a new PCV valve, ensuring it fits securely.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Compression tester
  • Engine hoist

Parts Required

  • Valve seals
  • Piston rings (if necessary)
  • Head gasket
  • PCV valve

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

4-8 hours

Difficulty

hard

Severity

high

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. why is my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) engine making a rattling noise

    Learn how to diagnose and fix engine rattling noise in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruc...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Rattling noise during engine idle or acceleration
    • •Decreased engine performance or power
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix the check engine light in my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the check engine light issue in your 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic and repair instruct...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Decreased fuel efficiency
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my Toyota Highlander steering wheel vibrating at high speeds?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix steering wheel vibration at high speeds in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair i...

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Steering wheel vibrates noticeably at speeds above 55 mph
    • •Vehicle feels unstable or wobbly during high-speed driving
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix the AC not blowing cold air in my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix the AC not blowing cold air in your 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and...

    Component:HVAC
    Symptoms
    • •AC compressor not engaging
    • •Warm air blowing from vents
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota Highlander shudder when accelerating

    Learn how to diagnose and fix shuddering during acceleration in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair inst...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Shuddering or vibrating sensation during acceleration
    • •Loss of power or sluggish acceleration
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix P0174 code in Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    P0174

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0174 lean condition in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instruct...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle during engine operation
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation