- Blown Head Gasket:
- A blown head gasket can allow engine coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, resulting in white smoke from the tailpipe. Other symptoms of a blown head gasket include:
- Engine overheating
- Loss of coolant
- Rough engine performance
- Oil contamination with coolant
- Cracked Cylinder Head:
- A cracked cylinder head can also cause coolant to leak into the combustion chamber, leading to white smoke from the tailpipe. Symptoms of a cracked cylinder head include:
- Engine overheating
- Loss of coolant
- Rough engine performance
- Damaged Turbocharger or Intercooler:
- In a turbocharged Vanagon, a damaged turbocharger or intercooler could be the source of the white smoke. If the turbocharger seals are worn or the intercooler is cracked, oil can leak into the intake system and be burned in the engine, causing white smoke.
- Exhaust Condensation:
- In cold or humid weather, condensation can form in the exhaust system and appear as white smoke from the tailpipe. When the exhaust system heats up, the condensation will evaporate and the smoke should dissipate.
_Diagnosis:_
To determine the exact cause of the white smoke from the tailpipe, it's best to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic who can diagnose the issue accurately and recommend the necessary repairs.