1992 Toyota Camry Loss in power, Deeper engine noise, funky

WEBBJ010

MEMBER
1992 TOYOTA CAMRY
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
200,021 MILES

Toyota Camry 1992 Manual 4 cylinder not sure of the litter.

My car recently started making some weird noises and running funny so i'm looking for some help. Here is what I know. I know its a problem with the engine (my guess something is wrong with a head gasket or spark plug) because the noise from the engine is louder and has a deeper tone accompanied by less power. I have to use a lot more gas in order to not stall. The problem was not gradual it just started out of the blue. There is also a funny smell now coming from the exhaust and just a tiny bit of oil on top of the engine where two of the spark plugs enter, a little more on the side and front but not enough for it to be a leak and car still retains oil. There are no other problems.

Recap Problems.
Loss of power
Louder Deeper engine sound
Funny exhaust smell
Small amount of oil on or near engine (seems to be normal because this is not new).

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,910 POSTS

Noises are not a result of a head gasket. A timing belt that is shredding or coming apart can make noises as it hits the cover. You might be able to tell if it's coming from the passenger side if you listen under the hood. If the belt jumps a tooth or two, the engine will have low power and won't idle properly.

A spun engine bearing will make a loud banging noise. If there is an oil pressure gauge on the dash, you might also see it pulsate and will read lower than normal.

Neither of these problems should cause an unusual exhaust smell. Coolant leaking from a head gasket into the engine will cause white smoke from the exhaust and the coolant level will go down.

The best is to have a mechanic listen to the engine. It's impossible to determine the exact cause of a noise if we can't see or hear the engne.

Caradiodoc