For 1990-2009 cars

Cause | Correction
--- | ---
DEFINITION: Excessive white smoke and/or coolant type odor coming from the exhaust pipe may indicate coolant in the combustion chamber. Low coolant levels, an inoperative cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat may lead to an "over temperature" condition which may cause engine component damage.

1. A slower than normal cranking speed may indicate coolant entering the combustion chamber. Refer to Engine Will Not Crank - Crankshaft Will Not Rotate.
2. Remove the spark plugs and inspect for spark plugs saturated by coolant or coolant in the cylinder bore.
3. Inspect by performing a cylinder leak-down test. During this test, excessive air bubbles within the coolant may indicate a faulty gasket or damaged component.
4. Inspect by performing a cylinder compression test. Two cylinders "side-by-side" on the engine block, with low compression, may indicate a failed cylinder head gasket.

Cracked intake manifold or failed gasket. | Replace the components as required.
Faulty cylinder head gasket. | Replace the head gasket and components as required. Refer to Cylinder Head Replacement - Left Side or Cylinder Head Replacement - Right Side.
Warped cylinder head. | Machine the cylinder head to the proper flatness, if applicable and replace the cylinder head gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Cleaning and Inspection.
Cracked cylinder head. | Replace the cylinder head and gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Replacement - Left Side and Cylinder Head Replacement - Right Side.
Cracked cylinder liner or engine block. | Replace the components as required.
Cylinder head or engine block porosity. | Replace the components as required.