hi--I just started my reliable 2003 Escape and there is white smoke coming out of exhaust pipe. New exhaust system was installed in May. what the heck? i am afraid of the word "gasket"--is that relevant?

It's possible. Could be vapor for various reasons. How about checking the oil and then taking off the radiator cap? If fluids are mixing you might see something unusual.

no milky goop-----feeling slightly less fearful of the "gasket" word....thanks

thanks all. But i am taking it in to shop, because its been cold for a while and this is suddenly billows of white smoke. Doesn't have an odor, and a stream of liquid coming out of tailpipe. on another site, a guy told me it will turn out to be a broken head or cracked block (am i saying those words right?) Where do you usually see coolant loss? thx