Q: We replaced our radiator today and now white smoke is coming out of the exaust and its ahaking which it was not doing before. I

asked by on March 18, 2017

We replaced our radiator. And now white smoke is coming out of the exaust and its shaking. It was not doing this before its also building pressure. It did this the last time the radiator was replaced I used blue devil and it stopped my radiator some how cracked again and we replaced it now its acting like a blown gasket earlier today it was fine

My car has 37000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Hi there. White smoke coming from the exhaust is an indicator of coolant being mixed with the engine oil and being burned in the combustion chamber. Typically a blown head gasket will cause this to occur, or a crack in the engine block. If you replaced the radiator due to an overheating problem, it is possible that this was an existing issue, for what ever reason didn’t show up. Also, using Blue Devil or other stop leak product, it is very common that this debris breaks off and becomes embedded inside coolant tubes, coolant channels inside the motor and especially heater core. The only advice we can really offer is to check your engine oil to see if it is ’milky’. If so, then it is likely that the head gasket has failed or engine block is cracked which will require significant repairs unfortunately.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How does the automatic climate control system work?
If your vehicle includes an automatic climate control system (higher end trims only), you have the ability to “set it and forget it” when it comes to heating and cooling. Using the system is simple, too. Here’s what you need...
How do I unbuckle a seat belt in a 2012 Honda CR-V?
It’s very easy to un buckle your seat belt: 1. Press the button on top of the seat belt buckle, until you hear the seat belt latch plate unlatch. 2. Pull the seat belt latch out of the buckle, and...
Plastic key in ignition
Hello, The metal key and plastic housing both need to be intact for the vehicle to start. The plastic housing holds a computer chip which sends a signal to the anti-theft system to start the vehicle. The metal key acts...
Door handle broken
Hello. This is most likely a mechanical issue with one of the components of your door latch assembly. An inspection would need to be completed to determine why your door won't close all the way (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-will-not-shut-inspection). I would suggest you...
2011 Dodge Avenger Transmission
Hello. The most basic way to put it is the 3rd and 4th gear are slipping (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/is-it-safe-to-drive-with-a-slipping-transmission). What was your concern when you had the car diagnosed? Was is just the Check Engine Light, or did you notice a problem...
Wont start, new battery, new alternator
This may be potentially a faulty starter relay or starter relay fuse. I would start by checking the fuse in the fuse box for the starter relay (should be a 40 amp fuse). I would also recommend checking the alternator...
Instrument Cluster gauges false readings
This may be related to a short or a faulty instrument cluster voltage regulator. The instrument voltage regulator regulates the voltage supplied to the various gauges in your vehicle’s dash. When this is not working properly, this may cause the...
Chip in key 2003 Land Rover Freelander
Hello - this is correct. There is a transponder chip inside your old key that is programmed already to your in-car receiver. Disassembling the old key, remove the chip, and installing it in your new key (discard or save the...
Stabilitrak System
Hi there. Unfortunately, this sounds like it's an ECU issue, most likely a software glitch that is causing the inconsistent operation of the ABS and Stabilitrak warning lights. It is possible however, that this is caused by a faulty wheel...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
You’re You’re likely already familiar with the much-celebrated Toyota Highlander, but did you know that Toyota has actually offered a hybrid version of everyone’s favorite crossover SUV since 2006? The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the most exciting...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You’re an Interior Designer
As As an interior designer, you need to transport a great many different items, including fabric, paint and wallpaper samples and sometimes even furniture items. You probably don’t handle overly large loads very often, and when you have to, you’ll...
The Top 5 Selling Cars in Connecticut in 2012
Connecticut Connecticut offers plenty of rain and its fair share of snow during the winter months, which means drivers need vehicles that can handle these conditions. Top selling vehicles in previous years have included the Toyota Camry, Corolla and the...