White Smoke From Exhaust
A little white vapor on a cold morning is just condensation. Thick, sweet-smelling white smoke that does not clear up is a different and more serious problem.
Should you keep driving?
Steady white smoke often means coolant entering the cylinders — commonly a head gasket. Get it diagnosed before more damage occurs.
Common causes
Blown head gasketThe classic cause of thick, sweet white smoke and disappearing coolant.
Cracked head or blockLess common but serious — lets coolant into the combustion chamber.
Cold-start condensationThin vapor that clears after a minute is normal, not a fault.
Failed intake gasketOn some engines this lets coolant get burned and smoke.
Rather have a pro handle it? Find a vetted local mechanic.