my friend has an 84 civic and it smokes a ridiculous amount when she drives it, not idling. is this just normal for this car or is it prone so some specific problems that can be fixed?

 

What color is the smoke (blue, grey, or white)?

Does she have to put water in the radiator on a normal basis?

What about the oil? Does she have to add oil on a regular basis?
Does the oil look milky (like coffee with LOTS of creamer)???


Answer the questions... the answers will help out a lot!


The color of the smoke will help determine what is causing the smoke.
If they have to add water and the oil is a milky color then it's a sign to a blown headgasket.
If the oil looks fine and it has to be filled up regularly, then it's probably time for a rebuild.

 

she has to add oil, no water though. smoke as I remember was blue.

 

Burning oil... probably rings, but there is a chance the PCV system isn't working right, check the PCV valve.

 

where might I find that on the car... im not familiar with her engine at all. hell, i wouldnt know where to find that on my engine