What might indicate that water is coming from the tailpipe?

When considering indications that water may be coming from the tailpipe, both a cracked cylinder block and a damaged cylinder head gasket are critical components to examine.

A cracked cylinder block can lead to coolant leaking into the combustion chamber. When this coolant enters the engine, it can be burned alongside fuel, resulting in water vapor being expelled through the tailpipe. This condition often shows up as excessive moisture or steam issuing from the exhaust.

Similarly, a damaged cylinder head gasket serves to seal the internal components of the engine. If this gasket is compromised, it can also allow coolant to mix with the engine oil or enter the combustion chamber. The presence of water or steam from the tailpipe often indicates that the head gasket failure has permitted coolant to escape into areas where it shouldn't be, contributing to the exhaust.

Thus, both the cracked cylinder block and the damaged cylinder head gasket are valid indicators of water leaking into the exhaust system, leading to water being expelled from the tailpipe.