What are the symptoms of a bad engine bearing?
2 Answers
Symptoms of a bad engine bearing are as follows: Obvious bearing noise: During cold starts under heavy load operation, when the engine oil is in a viscous state at low temperatures and has not yet lubricated the bearings, the bearing surface may form instant high temperatures due to the heavy load, causing metal fusion and seizure; As the engine ages and normal wear increases, the bearing clearance may become larger, resulting in noticeable bearing noise, oil leakage and pressure loss, insufficient oil supply between bearings, high temperatures, and eventual fusion and seizure. Bearing dry friction and seizure: Lack of coolant or prolonged high-temperature driving can cause rapid rises in oil temperature, loss of viscosity, and failure to form a protective oil film on the surfaces of the shaft and bearing, leading to severe friction, fusion, and seizure; Reduced oil pump supply pressure makes it difficult for oil to reach designated lubrication points at standard pressure. Clogged oil screens and oil passages by impurities can block oil flow to the crankshaft, oil pipeline leaks can reduce lubrication system supply pressure, resulting in bearing dry friction and seizure.
That time when I was driving, the engine suddenly started making a clanking knocking sound, especially louder when accelerating, and the car body was shaking as if trembling. I quickly pulled over to check and found the oil pressure gauge showing abnormally low readings. It had probably been less than half a minute, and the engine already felt underpowered, struggling to accelerate. This was clearly a sign of worn bearing shells and insufficient oil lubrication. If I had continued driving, it could have worn out the crankshaft, leading to serious consequences. I immediately turned off the engine and had it towed to the repair shop. Upon inspection, it was indeed a problem with the connecting rod bearings. The mechanic said I was lucky to have dealt with it in time, otherwise a major overhaul could have cost thousands. Everyone should always pay attention to unusual noises and the oil pressure warning light, and regular oil changes can prevent this issue.
