Key Warning Signs of Imminent Engine Failure, According to Experts

Several warning signs can point to approaching engine trouble, including changes in exhaust color, unusual noises, a loss of power, and increased oil consumption. These indicators were outlined by auto expert Evgeny Lipovitsky of Gazprombank Autoleasing in an interview with Izvestia.

One of the earliest red flags is the presence of metal shavings in the motor oil, which suggests heightened friction inside the engine. The specialist explained that the cause may lie in the crankshaft, bearings, scoring in the cylinders, fuel injection issues, or a faulty high-pressure fuel pump.

Another sign to watch for is a sudden drop in power and unstable idling. If the engine runs unevenly, produces vibrations, or visibly shakes, this could indicate wear on internal components.

Separately, Evgeny Ladushkin, head of the expert company LEM Solution, previously discussed possible reasons for steering wheel vibration. When the wheel vibrates at speed along with a growing hum, regardless of braking, a worn wheel bearing is almost certainly the culprit. If the shaking intensifies with speed, does not depend on brake pedal pressure, and produces no unusual sounds, but the car pulls to one side during straight-line driving, the expert says this points to worn or damaged tires and wheel rims.