Here's a breakdown of why and what to do:
Why this is happening:
* Head Gasket Failure: This is the most common culprit. The head gasket seals the cylinders from the cooling system. A blown head gasket allows coolant to leak into the cylinders, where it's burned, producing the white smoke. It can also leak externally, leading to antifreeze loss.
* Cracked Engine Block or Cylinder Head: A crack in either the block or the cylinder head can also allow coolant to mix with combustion gases, resulting in the same symptoms. This is usually more serious and often requires engine replacement or extensive repair.
* Other (Less Likely) Possibilities: While less likely, other possibilities include:
* Faulty coolant pressure cap: A bad cap can allow coolant to escape. However, this usually doesn't result in white smoke.
* Leaking radiator or hoses: This would cause antifreeze loss, but not necessarily white smoke. Check all hoses and the radiator for leaks carefully.
* Water pump leak: This usually causes external leaks rather than mixing with combustion gases.
What to do:
1. Don't drive the car: Continuing to drive with a head gasket leak or cracked engine will cause further damage and could lead to engine seizure.
2. Inspect for external leaks: Carefully examine the engine for any visible leaks around the head gasket, radiator, hoses, and water pump. Look for signs of coolant residue.
3. Pressure test the cooling system: A mechanic can use a pressure tester to check for leaks in the cooling system, including internal leaks that might not be visible externally. This helps determine if the leak is internal (head gasket/crack) or external.
4. Check the oil: If coolant is leaking into the cylinders, it can contaminate the engine oil. Check the oil dipstick; milky or foamy oil indicates coolant in the oil. This is a serious problem.
5. Take it to a mechanic: Diagnosing and repairing a head gasket leak or cracked engine block requires professional expertise. A mechanic can perform a proper diagnosis and provide an accurate repair estimate. Given the age of the car, the cost of repair might outweigh the value of the vehicle.
In short, the symptoms strongly indicate a serious internal engine problem. Driving the car further will likely cause significant and expensive damage. Have it towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair or consider the cost of repair versus the vehicle's value.
