What caused a cloud of smoke from our brand new Vauxhall Corsa?

I bought a new Corsa SE 1.4 petrol auto which we collected last Friday. After about ten minutes we got on the M1 and after about five more minutes there was a big white cloud of smoke from the back. My wife, who was following, said there was strong smell of burnt oil. I slowed down and the smoke gradually dissipated. The car continued running smoothly at about 40mph. I carried on and reached home without further problems. I checked the oil and checked for oil leaks, but everything seemed normal. We were then away for a few days so only on Monday did I contact the dealers. The sales manager looked into it and said his top technical man could not explain what might have happened. He said he had checked the fuel receipts and it had not had any diesel put in it. The car seems to be running perfectly right now. I wondered if you might have an idea as to what might have happened.

Asked on 28 December 2013 by PI, Brighouse

Answered by Honest John
It might have been condensation moisture or rainwater that collected in the exhaust system. Once the exhaust became hot, it evaporated, and that created the cloud of steam. The question is, how was the car stored that allowed so much moisture to collect in the exhaust system?
Similar questions
I have had my 29,000 mile 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco 1.4TFSI since new. It has been regularly serviced by Volkswagen. Eight weeks ago the engine warning light came on. It was recovered to Volkswagen (a shocking...
My husband bought a Range Rover Evoque a year ago. He was recently driving it when he heard a noise. He called out Land Rover and they found it had no oil in it at all. The engine needs replacing, so it...
I wonder if you can give us some advice. Our Land Cruiser has done 90,000 miles with no problems whatsoever until the engine suddenly died while overtaking a lorry up a hill on the A46. It had to be put...
Related models
Solid and decently equipped. Reasonable handling and some frugal engines.
 

Value my car

Save £75 on Warranty using code HJ75

with MotorEasy

Get a warranty quote

Save 12% on GAP Insurance

Use HJ21 to save on an ALA policy

See offer