2004 Kia Sedona Engine Smoke

An engine started from cold can't get hot enough to overheat in just ten minutes. When that happens, it is usually due to a leaking cylinder head gasket. Combustion gases sneak into the cooling system and can pool under the thermostat. That prevents it from opening. They have to be hit with hot liquid to open. Hot air won't do it.

The place to start is by having a chemical test performed to check for a head gasket leak. That involves drawing air from the radiator through a glass cylinder with two chambers partially-filled with a special dark blue liquid. If combustion gases are present, the liquid will turn bright yellow. This test usually takes less than five minutes.