White smoke from exhaust pipe

2008 JEEP LIBERTY
49,000 MILES • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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SHUCKER0909
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I left car running to charge new battery. When I went back to turn car off, I noticed white smoke from exhaust and car was running but on empty.I haven’t driven it in 17 months due to broken back. But every time I start it, it has white smoke from tailpipe, even after adding fresh gas to tank. Not sure why Possibly head gasket, cylinder head(s), fuel injector or fuel pump. Going to have towed to the shop, but I want to know approximately what it should cost for parts and labor for each. I’m just preparing for possibilities. Any information would be appreciated.
Jun 4, 2026 at 12:56 AM
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AL514
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Hello, are you able to unplug the fuel injectors yourself one by one at this point? Before it ends up at a shop. Thats just usually a quick test if the injectors connectors are accessible. See if unplugging an injector clears up the smoke, give it a second to adjust, but this test will not damage the catalytic converter because we are taking fuel away from the situation for testing purposes. You can also put a fuel pressure gauge T into or on the fuel rail, and see if you have fuel pressure drop off when the key is shut off. Sorry to hear about your back injury.
Jun 4, 2026 at 6:54 AM
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AL514
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
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These are a couple guides that can help with fuel pressure testing if you would like to try it yourself. The 2nd guide is about fuel injectors, read through them slowly to get an idea of what is happening, and of course ask questions. Everything is free here.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-fuel-system-pressure-and-regulator/

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-a-fuel-injector/
Jun 4, 2026 at 7:00 AM
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