Toyota RAV4 exhaust emitting white/gray smoke after oil change and overfill issue on Toyota RAV4

Submitted by sleepstalker67 · Jun 23, 2025
Published by RepairPal

Problem overview

Some Toyota RAV4 owners report experiencing white or gray smoke emissions following an oil change, particularly after an overfill issue. This white smoke may indicate condensation in the exhaust system or more serious concerns such as a leaking intake manifold gasket, bad EGR cooler, blown head gasket, or cracked cylinder head. Additionally, gray smoke can signal abnormal exhaust emissions, suggesting that the engine is not functioning properly. Overfilling the oil during an oil change can lead to excess oil burning off, contributing to smoke production. Owners may notice that the smoke occurs intermittently, especially when the engine is warm, and could also experience odd smells, occasional DPF warning lights, or large clouds of smoke after extended driving. It is advisable for affected owners to consult a qualified mechanic for diagnosis and necessary repairs.

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Toyota RAV4 vehicles with this problem

Average mileage: 165,000 miles
(165,000 - 165,000)

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