How to find out if you have an engine problem with a piece of paper: a motorist reveals the secret

On the SSPDaily portal, a motorist with 20 years of experience told us about a secret method he uses himself. At car repair shops, the condition of the engine is usually checked using computer diagnostics. However, this unique trick is quite effective and will help you to check it yourself.

What should you do with this piece of paper? The algorithm is very simple. After a short inspection trip, when the engine has already warmed up to operating temperature, you need to stop and hold the white office paper to the exhaust pipe.

If the paper is sucked up to the middle, this may indicate the presence of backpressure caused by the limited capacity of the muffler. This often happens when exhaust gases can no longer fully pass through the muffler. The problem indicates a malfunction in the exhaust gas recirculation system, blown valves, or malfunctions in the catalyst or gas distribution mechanism.

If the engine is in good working order, the paper will only wobble slightly and will not move suddenly. If you see uneven movement, it may indicate problems with the ignition system. You should carefully inspect the condition of the coils and spark plugs.

But that's not all. After a few minutes, assess the condition of the white paper. If it remains almost clean and has minor spots of soot and moisture, this is ideal. But if there are greasy brown spots, you should take a closer look at the engine. While it's warming up, oil can sometimes get into the exhaust system through leaks on the cylinder walls. Sometimes oil comes out through the exhaust pipe, even in perfectly good turbocharged engines. However, this only happens when the accelerator is actively depressed, and it should not happen at low speeds.

If there are light oily traces on the paper, this indicates the presence of antifreeze in the exhaust gases. This may be due to a burnt-out cylinder head gasket. In this case, the exhaust will resemble white steam. In this case, urgent intervention is required. When the oil mixes with antifreeze, it loses its properties and can cause serious damage to the car.