1990 Chevy Cavalier White Smoke Overheating

1990 CHEVROLET TRUCK
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SOONERBRED26
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I was driving on the highway this morning, going 60mph. Then, there was smoke started pouring in from the engine, and it was coming in through the air vents. It was white smoke, and the temp light and the check engine light came on. I pulled over, let it sit for awhile, and then I added water, because it seemed like it needed it, as the water was low. I let it run for awhile, and began driving again. the smoke starting coming in again, and the temp and check engine lights came on. I don't know what's wrong, and I'd like some sort of idea before I take it to anyone. If anyone's got an idea, let me know.
Sep 28, 2006 at 2:24 AM
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JMOORE96
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  • 2 POSTS
you might need a knew radiator hose or a radiator. One of them is leaking. If you keep on driving it will only get worse. Also not getting it fixed will cause serious engine problems. Possibly if you drove it long enough without antifreeze or water. The engine would go. Take it to the shop.
Sep 28, 2006 at 11:47 AM
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BUBBA_KOSKI
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 129 POSTS
dont go off wasting your money on a radiator when it may not be that, diagnose it first, check the cap, may be faulty, and pouring out and burning off of the hot motor, causing the smoke(steam) and wasting your coolant mixture, then check the thermostat or the fan motor.
Sep 30, 2006 at 12:25 PM
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Suggested Repair

Diagnose the cooling system before replacing the radiator. Check the radiator cap for a fault that vents coolant onto the hot engine, then inspect the thermostat and cooling fan motor.

Conversation Summary

A 1990 Chevy Cavalier produced white smoke through the vents at highway speed, with the temperature and check engine lights on and low coolant. Adding water did not stop the problem. One reply suggested a leaking radiator or hose, while the expert advised diagnosing first: a faulty radiator cap can dump coolant onto the hot engine and create steam, and the thermostat or fan motor should also be checked.

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