What can occur if the piston rings are worn out?

When piston rings are worn out, one of the primary consequences is that oil can leak into the combustion chamber. Piston rings are designed to create a seal between the piston and the cylinder walls, preventing oil from entering the combustion area and maintaining proper compression. When these rings wear down, their ability to form a tight seal diminishes, allowing oil to slip past and mix with the air-fuel mixture that is supposed to be burned during combustion.

This not only leads to increased oil consumption but can also cause issues such as blue smoke from the exhaust and potentially lead to more serious engine damage if the oil burning isn't addressed. Maintaining the integrity of the piston rings is crucial for optimal engine performance, ensuring that the engine runs efficiently and with proper lubrication.