Hello,

Recenty, my 97 Sport has been smoking quite a bit from the exhaust. This doesn't happen when I am driving, only after it has been idling for a few minutes. The smoke is a greyish white. Any idea what this could be the cost for having it fixed? I am due for inspection shortly and know it will not pass emissions.

Thanks in advance.

 

These engines are known for having valve guide seals that wear prematurely. The symptom you describe matches failing valve guide seals. They can be replaced without removing the head, but it is time consuming. Try a thicker oil (10W40 or even 20W50).

 

Uh oh- white usually indicates water which is never a good thing. Better get this diagnosed could be something easy or new motor....

 

https://mitsubishiforum.com/m_104778/tm.htm

 

Unlikely it's a gasket failure (what I'd worry about w/ white smoke) unless it also has overheat issues or is loosing water which wasn't noted.

I second the valve guide seals. Can be replaced w/out removing the heads if you use the rope or lp air trick.

HTH.