White Smoke

Q: I have white smoke coming from the tailpipe on my car, what might be the problem?

A: Be aware that all cars, new ones included, may release a little white vapor when cold. This is caused from condensation in a car’s exhaust system. Water dripping from the tailpipe is also fairly common from condensation. However if your car billows out white smoke after it is warm, you may have a problem. White smoke indicates that the engine is burning coolant. This means that coolant is getting into the cylinders and burning with the air-fuel mixture. Another indication of burning coolant would be a low coolant level in the radiator or overflow bottle. A blown head gasket, cracked block, or cracked head can cause coolant to leak into the cylinders. To prevent severe engine damage, do not continue to drive your car. Have a technician look into the problem.