Coolant in intake

Coolant in the intake can mix with the fuel and air, enter the combustion chamber, and be ignited. This will produce a white smoke out of the exhaust. It will also reduce the overall coolant level and can lead to engine overheating.

Table of Contents

• 1. Causes
  • 1.1 Cracked or Damaged Manifold
  • 1.2 Damaged Head Gasket
  • 1.3 Cracked Cylinder Head or Engine Block

Causes

Cracked or Damaged Manifold

The intake manifold is a collection of tubes that delivers the fuel/air mixture to the combustion chamber. As coolant circulates around the engine, if the manifold has a leak, coolant can seep in.

You may also notice a reduction in engine power if the manifold is damaged, as the fuel/air may leak out as well.

Damaged Head Gasket

If the head gasket is damaged, the seal of the combustion chamber will be breached. Coolant circulating around the engine can seep into the intake manifold and combustion chamber.

Cracked Cylinder Head or Engine Block

A crack or break in the cylinder head or --(carpedia, 447)--engine block can also permit coolant to enter the intake. This type of damage can be caused by the engine overheating from lack of coolant or lubrication.