Smoking from underneath the car?

1993 CHEVROLET LUMINA
200,000 MILES • 3.1L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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MR. LEE
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White smoke from underneath the car looks like on top of the catalytic converter and car shuts off
Dec 9, 2025 at 8:25 PM
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STRAILER
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You could have a plastic bag stuck the catalytic converter which is common, I would raise the car up for an inspection so you can see where the smoke is coming from. I have also seen engine oil leak from the valve covers and cause the same problem. Please use this video to help raise the car up.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xLFn_bMkZc0

Please upload an image or a short video in your response, so I can see what's going on.
Dec 11, 2025 at 9:54 AM
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MR. LEE
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Thank you for the suggestion but I looked under the car nothing stuck to the converter the smoke was coming from over top of it. The research I got so far points to a head gasket issue or a bad intake manifold gasket. If you have any other suggestions I'd love to hear
Dec 11, 2025 at 10:30 AM
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MR. LEE
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1993 Chevrolet Lumina Euro 3.1 liter V6 automatic transmission front wheel drive, was driving and started smelling a burning smell when pulled over to inspect there was heavy white smoke coming from behind the engine. I looked under the car and can see smoke coming from the catalytic converter but not out the rear exhaust but from underneath at the catalytic converter.
Dec 11, 2025 at 4:16 PM (Merged)
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STRAILER
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Yes, a head gasket leak can cause smoke and the smell, here is a video to help us tell for sure if this is the problem, like I say if you upload as short video I can tell for sure as well.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zpNjYmmiYY

Please go over this guide and get back to us.
Dec 12, 2025 at 8:22 AM