Engine Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

SYMPTOM CHART

SYMPTOMS	PROBABLE CAUSE	REMEDY
Compression is too low	Blown cylinder head gasket	Replace the gasket.
	Worn or damaged piston rings	Replace the rings.
	Worn piston or cylinder	Repair or replace the piston and/or the cylinder block.
	Worn or damaged valve seat	Repair or replace the valve and/or the seat ring
Drop in engine oil pressure	Engine oil level is too low	Check the engine oil level.
	Malfunction of engine oil pressure switch	Replace the engine oil pressure switch.
	Clogged oil filter	Install a new filter.
	Worn oil pump gears or cover	Replace the gears and/or the cover.
	Thin or diluted engine oil	Change the engine oil to the correct viscosity.
	Stuck (opened) oil relief valve	Repair the relief valve.
	Excessive bearing clearance	Replace the bearings.
Engine oil pressure too high	Stuck (closed) oil relief valve	Repair the relief valve.
Noisy valves	Incorrect valve clearance	Adjust valve clearance
	Thin or diluted engine oil (low engine oil pressure)	Change the engine oil.
	Worn or damaged valve stem or valve guide	Replace the valve and/or the guide.
Connecting rod noise/main bearing noise	Insufficient oil supply	Check the engine oil level.
	Thin or diluted engine oil	Change the engine oil.
	Excessive bearing clearance	Replace the bearings.