1996 Other Saturn Models Smoke from the tailpipe

Tiny
JESPI
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 SATURN
1996 Other Saturn Models

ok, I have a 96 saturn, and I got it tuned up with an oil change a month ago. I guess he didnt do the oil change cause today I checked because it was making that "i need oil sound" and it was bone dry. I have no oil leak. I put 4 quarts in because it was so dry and then I drove home, about 2.5 miles. When I got home I noticed a white smoke coming from the tail pipe. I have not noticed it until I put the oil in my car, but it didnt smell or look like burning smoke. I understand that burning oil is black or blue. I did spill a bit of oil, but it was coming from my tail pipe not from under the hood. Everything I have read is that white smoke means busted head gasket. Please say its not a busted head gasket. And if it is, let me rephrase my question: how much should I expect to pay for a busted head gasket on a 96 saturn?
Friday, April 25th, 2008 AT 11:47 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
White smoke points to coolant being burn in the combustion chamber to confirm headgasket get it block and pressure tested.

The cost of repair in terms of labor varies with location could range from $70-$130.00 per hr. Also see below


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/12900_labor_time_1.jpg

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Saturday, April 26th, 2008 AT 12:25 AM
Tiny
JESPI
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Ok, so, just to make sure. Its probably not because I put too much oil in? Ive heard that it smokes when you do that. Thanks much.
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Saturday, April 26th, 2008 AT 1:13 AM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
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Check the dipstick, if you put too much in, you can destroy the motor in seconds.
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Saturday, April 26th, 2008 AT 5:37 AM
Tiny
RASMATAZ
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Like Merlin said recheck the oil level way too much will ruin the engine
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Saturday, April 26th, 2008 AT 8:03 AM

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