Nissan Pathfinder large cloud of smoke on startup intermittently on Nissan Pathfinder

Some Nissan Pathfinder owners report experiencing a large cloud of smoke on startup, which can indicate several potential issues. One common cause is a blown head gasket, leading to white smoke that may dissipate after a few seconds, particularly noticeable after the vehicle has been sitting idle for an extended period. Additionally, some owners find that white smoke could signal a coolant leak into the cylinder, often identifiable by a milky appearance in the oil, potentially due to a cracked head or faulty head gasket. In other cases, smoke may simply result from condensation in the exhaust system during cold startups. Furthermore, issues with piston rings or valve seals can allow oil to seep into the combustion chamber, causing smoke upon startup after the vehicle has been parked for a while. Problems within the exhaust system, such as a malfunctioning catalytic converter, may also contribute to this issue. Regular maintenance checks are crucial for diagnosing and addressing these smoke problems, and it is advisable for owners to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection to determine the exact cause and necessary repairs.