White smoke coming from the coolant tank?

JOECAF66

MEMBER
2007 CHEVROLET AVEO
4WD
AUTOMATIC
78,000 MILES

I noticed white smoke coming from the coolant tank. The oil level is fine, but I have to keep adding water to the tank before I drive. At present, I am only driving short distances and put water in the tank and carry extra water with me. I have been to two different mechanics, the first one didn't find anything, the second one replaced the expansion tank cap, but it is still smoking. When I told the second mechanic that, he said he would have to order another part, but I haven't heard back from him yet. At this point, should I go see a 3rd mechanic?

Friday, May 23rd, 2025 AT 1:49 PM

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
54,137 POSTS

Yes, I would find someone else, did either of them do a head gasket test?

This is what needs to be done:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

and please go over this guide as well:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/recognizing-the-symptoms-understanding-a-blown-head-gasket-in-your-vehicle

Please go over these guides and get back to us.

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Friday, May 23rd, 2025 AT 4:52 PM

JOECAF66

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I have no idea if any of this was done. I will have to ask the next one. Ballpark figure, do you have an estimate of what this might cost? Thanks

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Friday, May 23rd, 2025 AT 6:33 PM

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
54,137 POSTS

It should cost about $2,000 with machine work of the cylinder head. If the system tests positive for gases and they can't find the gasket failure I would have the cylinder head pressure checked for cracks.

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Sunday, May 25th, 2025 AT 10:56 AM