3.0 tdi Smoke on Cold Start-up - Problem ?

[Andy JB]

I note during winter my 3.0 tdi A6 2009 emits white/grey smoke on start up which smells quite acrid. It clears straightaway & doesn't omit anything when driving I am aware of.

Its a well maintained unit at 80k with fuel filters etc regularly changed & oil changes, premium fuel etc.

It does unfortunately these days get used for shorter journeys on cold but at least once weekly it gets a good blast.

I am sure it didn't do this last winter & only noticed it below 7degrees when glow plugs on.

Is this normal for these units /diesel in general or does this suggest a pending problem?

[Dr G]

If you give it a good long run does it then do it the following morning?

[Andy JB]

Much less so Dr G but theres still a whiff but only when cold. I'd be interested to see when temp warms up above 7deg .

[Dr G]

I noticed much the same thing of an '11 car earlier this afternoon, it was a little bit whiffy (hadn't been run in at least a week) but appeared to be running normally. Gave it a good run and all happy. I'll start it again tomorrow and see if it still stinks.