Hello I recently purchased a '96 850 (non turbo) as a commuter car (I once had two 850 R's and loved them). This is my first expierence with a higher mileage Volvo 850.

It has 130,000 mike on it. It starts, stops, runs and drives great... BUT there is some white smoke coming from under the hood (not much) which is visable at idle, and I can smell an exhaust scent too. IT recently barely failed an emission test for NOX, but was borderline enough to get the tags anyway. The engine does not run hot, right in the middle. There is not oil splattered anywhere in the engine compartment (looks like it was recently cleaned however). There is also some white smoke visible from the exhaust at idle, but not much.

Could this be a cat converter issue? Anyone else know what it could be? The oild level is good and the oil looks clean. I don't think it's a bad head gasket. A/C doesn't seem to work at all (tghe compressor never even turns on), not sure if that's a clue or not. Any thoughts?

I appreciate any thoughts! -Scott

 

I would inspect/replace the PVC vent system

 

The PCV system is definitely a good place to start. Even though it doesn't run hot keep an eye on the coolant level in the expansion tank. I have always heard that white smoke (not steam) is usually coolant burning.