We finally had good weather in Austin today so I was able to finally wash my MINI today. I took it for a ride about an hour later. While I was out side taking pictures of it, I noticed some white smoke coming out of the bonnet scoop. It continued for about 5 minutes, so I opened up the bonnet, but everything, visually, looked fine. As far as I could tell, it did not continue after that. Should I be concerned? Is there anything I need to check?

 

cold water on hot IC = steam

completely normal, mine does it after wvery car wash

 

If you see smoke you should smell smoke. Most likely steam.

 

That or check your radiator fluid level sound almost like a leak there I spilled some on last refil and had plenty of white smoke when it dripped to the heat shield!

 

During the summer time when it rains, I have that happen to me! I would be sitting at a light and all you would see is steam coming from the scoop. What makes it even more funny is when you see the reaction of people looking over at my car! I am sure they think that my car is on fire or something, but the look on their faces is funny! With the water spray kit, this will be a normal thing happening in the summer time to keep things cool during traffic time! But for you, it is most likely steam! Happy motoring!

Garrett

 

The smoke is steam coming from the intercooler and engine due to water being sprayed into the intercooler scoop evaporating from the warming engine. On cool days, it can look rather wicked. Think of it as smoke from a snub-nosed revolver.

 

Yea, you guys are probably right. I am just being overly cautious. Thanks for the help.

 

There is nothing wrong with being overly cautious! Glade you came to this community for others to help you out! And I am sure we are glade we can offer you help.

Garrett