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What happens if there are metal filings in my engine’s oil?
When I had my car last serviced, my mechanic explained that there were metal filings in my car’s engine oil. I recently returned from a trip overseas and I can’t remember if my car is okay to drive. Is it a bad idea to drive with metal filings in my engine oil?
Kara Vanderbeek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Having some sort of metal chip off into your engine oil is a normal part of engine wear, and though most cars are equipped with an oil filter to catch any pieces, the system isn’t perfect, getting metal filings in engine oil.
Depending on the amount of metal in your oil, the oil passages in your vehicle may become blocked or restricted. In such cases, oil won’t be able to reach critical engine components, which can cause premature engine failure.
To eliminate your risk of engine damage, you should replace the oil and oil filter regularly. If you notice any of the following signs, you should take your car back to the mechanic to assess and treat the issue:
- Decreased engine power or lagging acceleration suggest you have contaminated oil
- Ticking noises can indicate your oil is restricted from flowing where it needs to
- Rough idles or a vibrating engine can be the result of a lack of proper lubrication
- Clunking sounds can be a sign of engine knocking, wherein fuel burns unevenly in cylinders due to a buildup of metal shavings in oil
- White exhaust fumes indicate that oil is getting into your cylinders
- Check engine light is on
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