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 Coolant in Combustion Chamber.
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 Replacement - Left Side or Cylinder Head Replacement - Right Side.
Cracked cylinder head. | Replace the cylinder head and gasket. Refer to Cylinder Head Replacement - Left Side or 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.