Coolant leak (Chevrolet Captiva 1 2006-2018: Engine 2.0 l (diesel): Troubleshooting)

Coolant entered the combustion chamber

Inspection	operation, action
Definition: Excessive white smoke and/or coolant smell from the exhaust pipe may indicate the presence of coolant in the combustion chamber. Low coolant levels, an inefficient cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat can lead to conditions "excessive temperature", which may cause damage to engine components.
Preview	Check for external coolant leaks. See Section 1D1, Engine Cooling - 2.0 Diesel.
Locate damaged cylinders	Checking the balance of cylinders with a diagnostic tool Pressure testing of the cooling system Compression test
Visual inspection of the exhaust gas recirculation system (EGR)	Inspect the EGR valve (EGR) and intake system for signs of coolant leakage. If any problems are found, replace the EGR cooler.
Leak in cylinder head gasket	Remove the cylinder heads of the bank with the damaged cylinder and inspect for damage. Replace components if necessary.
Damage to the cylinder head or engine block	Inspect cylinder heads for cracks. Inspect the cylinder block for damage. Inspect the cylinder head mating surface for straightness. Replace components if necessary.

Coolant has entered the engine oil

Cause	elimination
Definition: Foamy or discolored oil, or an overfilled engine may indicate coolant has entered the crankcase. Low coolant levels, an inefficient cooling fan, or a faulty thermostat can lead to conditions "excessive temperature", which may cause damage to engine components. Dirty engine oil and dirty oil filter must be replaced. Check the oil for excessive foaming or check for excessive oil filling in the engine. Oil diluted with coolant may not effectively lubricate the main bearings, resulting in engine component damage. See "Noise at the bottom of the engine regardless of engine speed"in this section. Check by testing the cylinder for leaks. During this test, excessive air bubbles in the cooling system may indicate a gasket failure or component damage. Inspection should be carried out when checking the degree of compression in the cylinder. The presence of a low compression ratio in two adjacent cylinders of an engine block may indicate a failure of the cylinder head gasket. See "Checking engine compression"in this section.
Faulty cylinder head gasket	If necessary, replace the gasket and cylinder head components. See Section 1B, Engine Mechanical - 2.0 Diesel.
Deformed cylinder head	Replace cylinder head gasket. See Section 1B, Engine Mechanical - 2.0 Diesel.
Cracked cylinder head	Replace cylinder head and gasket.
Cracks in the engine block	If necessary, replace these engine components.
Porosity of the cylinder head, block or manifold	If necessary, replace these engine components.
Leak in the oil cooler of the engine cooling system	Replace components if necessary.