- Blue or white smoke coming from the exhaust pipe: When oil leaks into the cylinders, it can burn and produce blue or white smoke. This is because oil contains hydrocarbons, which are the same compounds that make up gasoline. When these hydrocarbons burn, they produce a blue or white flame.
- Loss of power: If oil is leaking into the cylinders, it can also cause a loss of power. This is because the oil can interfere with the combustion process, making it less efficient.
- Increased oil consumption: If oil is leaking into the cylinders, the engine will need to use more oil to compensate. This can lead to an increased oil consumption, which may be noticeable if you have to add oil to the engine more frequently than usual.
- Engine knocking or pinging: If oil is leaking into the cylinders, it can also cause the engine to knock or ping. This is because the oil can prevent the piston rings from sealing properly against the cylinder walls, allowing the piston to move too freely and make contact with the cylinder head.
- Engine overheating: If oil is leaking into the cylinders, it can also cause the engine to overheat. This is because the oil can clog up the cooling passages, preventing the coolant from circulating properly and absorbing the heat from the engine.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to have your 2002 Nissan Maxima inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to diagnose the problem and prevent further damage to the engine.
