How To Identify Subaru Piston Problems

Your Subaru's engine relies on various components working together to deliver performance, efficiency, and reliability. Among these components, the pistons are crucial to maintaining engine function. If there’s an issue with your Subaru’s pistons, it can lead to a decrease in engine performance, fuel efficiency, and overall driving experience. Recognizing piston problems early can save you time and money on costly repairs. Below, we’ll highlight common signs of Subaru piston problems and what you can do about them. For professional diagnosis and repair, visit Empire Subaru.

1. Decreased Engine Performance

One of the most noticeable signs that your Subaru's pistons may be failing is a drop in engine performance. If the pistons are damaged or worn, they won't seal properly in the cylinder, leading to a loss of compression. This can cause a noticeable decrease in acceleration and overall engine power.

If you’re experiencing sluggish acceleration, rough idling, or hesitation during acceleration, it could be due to piston issues. When pistons don't operate at their best, they can't transfer enough energy to the crankshaft, leading to reduced performance. If you suspect piston problems, visit Empire Subaru to have your engine checked.

2. Increased Oil Consumption

Excessive oil consumption can be another indicator that your Subaru’s pistons are experiencing problems. Damaged pistons may allow oil to leak into the combustion chamber, where it burns off along with the air-fuel mixture. This can result in the engine consuming more oil than normal.

If you notice that you’re frequently adding oil to your vehicle, it may be time to have your pistons inspected. While increased oil consumption can also be a sign of other issues like valve seal problems, it’s always a good idea to rule out piston damage as a potential cause.

3. Blue Smoke from the Exhaust

Seeing blue smoke coming from your Subaru’s exhaust is a telltale sign that oil is burning in the combustion chamber. This typically occurs when the pistons are damaged or the piston rings are worn. If the piston rings aren’t providing a proper seal, oil can seep into the combustion chamber and burn off, producing blue smoke.

If you observe blue smoke after starting the engine or while accelerating, it’s important to have the pistons and related components checked by a professional. Driving with a faulty piston system can lead to severe engine damage over time.

4. Engine Misfire or Rough Idling

Piston damage or improper sealing can cause engine misfires, which are typically felt as rough idling or irregular engine performance. Misfires occur when one or more cylinders fail to fire correctly due to issues with compression. If the pistons are worn out, they won’t be able to generate the right compression within the cylinder, causing the engine to misfire.

You might experience the car shaking at idle or feel unusual vibrations while driving. If these symptoms occur, have your Subaru inspected by a qualified technician at Empire Subaru to pinpoint the issue and take corrective action.

5. Knocking Noises

A knocking or tapping noise coming from the engine can also indicate that the pistons are having trouble. This sound is often referred to as “piston slap,” and it happens when the piston moves too much inside the cylinder, causing it to strike the cylinder walls. Over time, this can damage the piston and cylinder further, leading to more severe engine issues.

If you hear a consistent knocking sound, especially during acceleration or under load, it’s time to have your Subaru’s engine checked. A professional mechanic will be able to assess the extent of the piston damage and determine whether a replacement is needed.

6. Poor Fuel Efficiency

If your Subaru’s pistons are failing, you may notice a decrease in fuel efficiency. Since the pistons help maintain proper compression in the engine, when they’re damaged or not working correctly, the engine may need to work harder to generate the same amount of power. This can lead to an increase in fuel consumption as the engine compensates for the reduced efficiency.

If you find yourself refueling more frequently than usual or noticing a significant drop in miles per gallon, it could be time to check the pistons and other engine components.

7. Engine Overheating

When pistons fail to seal properly, the engine can suffer from excessive heat buildup. The pistons rely on proper compression to prevent excess heat from entering the engine, but when they wear out, they can cause the engine to overheat. If you notice that your Subaru's temperature gauge is higher than usual or the engine is consistently overheating, this could be a sign of piston issues.

Overheating can cause further damage to your engine, so it’s essential to address the problem promptly.

What to Do Next?

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms in your Subaru, it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Piston problems can be a serious issue, but the good news is they can often be resolved with timely repairs.

To ensure your Subaru receives the best care, visit Empire Subaru for expert diagnostics and repairs. Our team of experienced technicians can quickly identify piston issues and provide you with the most cost-effective solution to get your car running smoothly again.