Metal shavings in the oil — what do they mean?

Metal shavings in the oil are one of the more worrying symptoms. They show that excessive friction and component wear are happening inside the engine.

Where do the shavings come from?

• Wear of the bearings and crankshaft
• Seizure or excessive friction of components
• Wear of the timing gear or oil pump
• The result of changing the oil too rarely

What to do?

A fine, barely visible sheen can be the effect of normal bedding-in, especially after a rebuild. Clear shavings, however, are a signal for urgent diagnostics — driving on risks a serious failure.

Shavings in the oil are not a symptom that passes on its own — the faster you react, the smaller the repair.

If you’ve noticed shavings, don’t delay. We’ll change the oil and filter and help assess the engine’s condition.