Black smoke (RZ4E-TC)

1. Black smoke description of symptom

Black smoke is generated when the engine is under load, idling, or hot, or when starting the engine in a cold state.

2. Black smoke diagnostics

1. Preliminary inspection

Check if any problem exists in the vehicle.
Remove the air cleaner and inspect for contamination, collapsing in the air duct, or any condition that restricts the flow.
Ensure that the ground of the ECM is free of dirt and is fixed securely in the correct position.
Inspect the fuel quality.
Inspect the engine oil level and oil quality.
Verify the Injector ID Code of each cylinder.
Check the scan tool data list.
Check for related Service Bulletins.

2. Sensor inspection

Compare the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT), Intake Air Temperature (IAT), and Fuel Temperature parameters while the engine is cold. If the difference between the temperature values is 5°C {9°F} or more, inspect for high resistance in each circuit and for sensor failure when the engine is cold.
{When the ignition switch is turned ON, the MAF sensor is heated, and as a result, the IAT shows a higher value than the normal intake air temperature.}
Observe the Mass Air Flow (MAF) parameter on the scan tool, and check for MAF sensor malfunctions or delayed operation.
Observe the Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) Sensor parameter on the scan tool. It is normal if the Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) Sensor parameter shows 0.9 to 1.0 V when the ignition switch is turned ON without starting the engine after 30 seconds or more have passed since the stop of engine operation. If not, inspect for high resistance in each circuit and for any sensor failure.
With the vehicle in neutral and idling, completely depress the accelerator pedal while observing the Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) parameter and Desired Fuel Rail Pressure (FRP) parameter. The difference displayed should always be held to 5 MPa {725 psi} or less.
Observe the Boost Pressure and Barometric Pressure (BARO) parameters when the ignition switch is ON and the engine is OFF. It is normal if the difference between both parameters is 7.0 kPa {1.0 psi} or less.

3. Fuel system inspection

Remove and visually inspect the injector.
Perform the Cylinder Balance with a scan tool.
Perform the Injector Forced Drive with a scan tool.
Observe the Fuel Compensation parameter for each cylinder on the scan tool while idling.

4. Air intake system inspection

Inspect the air cleaner, air intake duct, and intercooler for clogging, holes, or leakage.
Inspect for any condition that restricts flow within the turbocharger intake duct.
Inspect for a stuck intake throttle valve.
Inspect the inlet cover for clogging or air leakage.
Inspect the MAF sensor for dirt or damage.
Inspect the turbocharger turbine wheel, shaft, or compressor wheel for wear or damage.
Inspect the turbocharger oil seal for oil leakage.
Inspect the actuator for breakage.

5. Exhaust system inspection

Inspect whether the exhaust system flow is restricted.

6. Engine mechanical inspection

Inspect the compression pressure of the engine.
Inspect for poor timing of the idle gear and timing chain.
Inspect the valve clearance.
Inspect for a stuck valve stem.
Inspect the valve seat for wear.
Inspect the valve spring for breakage and fatigue.
Inspect the camshaft for wear.
Inspect for pressure leakage due to piston ring damage.
Inspect the gasket for defects.
Inspect the piston for seizure.
Inspect for oil intrusion into the combustion chamber.

7. Other inspections

Inspect whether the EGR system is operating properly. (Euro2 and Euro4)
Perform the EGR control system check. (Euro2 and Euro4)
Inspect the relief valve and relief valve control solenoid valve for sticking. (Except Euro2 and Euro4)
Inspect for excessive blow-by gas.