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What would cause white smoke and engine sputtering in a 2001 Nissan Frontier?

White smoke and engine sputtering in a 2001 Nissan Frontier can indicate several potential issues:

1. Blown Head Gasket: A blown head gasket can allow coolant to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in white smoke from the exhaust. This can also cause the engine to run rough and sputter.

2. Cracked Cylinder Head: A cracked cylinder head can also lead to coolant leaking into the combustion chamber and causing white smoke. This is often accompanied by overheating and loss of coolant.

3. Faulty Fuel Injector: A faulty fuel injector can cause the engine to run rich, leading to white smoke from unburned fuel. This can also result in engine sputtering and hesitation.

4. Worn Piston Rings: Worn or damaged piston rings can allow oil to enter the combustion chamber, resulting in white smoke. This is often accompanied by excessive oil consumption.

5. Coolant Leak: A coolant leak, such as a faulty radiator hose or a damaged water pump, can cause white smoke if coolant is dripping onto hot engine components.

Diagnosing the exact cause of the white smoke and engine sputtering requires a thorough inspection and potentially some diagnostic testing by a qualified mechanic. It's recommended to have the vehicle inspected as soon as possible to identify and address the root cause of the issue.