Performance Issues:
* Loss of power: A significant drop in engine power, especially noticeable when accelerating. The Jeep might struggle to climb hills or maintain highway speed.
* Rough running/misfire: The engine will run unevenly, shaking, and potentially sputtering or hesitating. You might hear a knocking or ticking sound. This is often accompanied by a check engine light.
* Exhaust smoke: Noticeable white or bluish-grey smoke from the exhaust pipe, indicating that combustion gases are leaking past the piston rings. Excessive smoke is a strong indicator. Black smoke points to a rich fuel mixture, not necessarily a blown cylinder.
* Reduced fuel economy: You'll notice a significant decrease in miles per gallon.
Mechanical Issues:
* Low compression: This is the definitive test. A compression test performed by a mechanic measures the pressure inside each cylinder. Low compression in one or more cylinders confirms a blown cylinder or related damage.
* Leakdown test: This test also performed by a mechanic measures how much air escapes from the cylinder after compression. It can pinpoint the source of a leak (rings, valves, head gasket).
Other Signs:
* Check Engine Light: This light will almost certainly illuminate, often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) that can help pinpoint the problem area. A mechanic can read these codes with an OBD-II scanner.
* Engine overheating: While not always directly caused by a blown cylinder, it can be a consequence if the engine is severely damaged and not functioning properly.
Important Note: Driving a vehicle with a blown cylinder can cause serious further damage to the engine. If you suspect you've blown a cylinder, stop driving the vehicle immediately and have it towed to a mechanic for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring the problem will only lead to more expensive repairs later.
