I've got a pacifica with about 26,000 on it. I was driving home from my friends house 2 nights ago and the check engine light came on.. i figured i'd take it to the dealership monday no biggie. well i need an oil change so i went and got the oil 10w-30 and a new oil filter, changed the oil as i alway do and now white smoke comes out the exhaust and it smells like something is burning in the engine and the engine smokes just a litle. i have no idea what the problem could be cause i changed the oil exactly the same as i always do and i've never had any problems. please help, this is my only car and i have to get to work soon.

 

A check engine light is usually related to the emission control system. Could be related to the white smoke you are seeing.

 

Usually white smoke and the smell of something burning is an indication of a blown head gasket but it could be something else.
Does the burning scent smell anything like anti-freeze? Check your anti-freeze overflow tank; is the color of the fluid dark or pinkish.
If it is dark, that's an indication of oil in the anti-freeze and that means a blown head gasket. I hope this isn't the problem and if it is I hope you are still under warranty! I'm not trying to scare you but just giving some insight as to what it could be. Hopefully it's something easily fixed. Good luck!