What are signs of combustion chamber leaks?

Signs of combustion chamber leaks include discoloration or rust. This occurs because leaks can allow exhaust gases, which are extremely hot, to escape and come into contact with cooler parts of the engine. The result is often discoloration or corrosion of those surfaces due to the high temperatures and chemical reactions that occur. This visual evidence serves as a strong indicator of potential issues within the combustion chamber.

Other signs such as decreased fuel efficiency and strange noises may also occur, but they are more general symptoms of various engine problems and not definitive indicators of combustion chamber leaks specifically. Smoother engine running is typically associated with optimal engine performance, which would not be expected when leaks are present.