What typically results from worn or broken piston rings?

Worn or broken piston rings lead to increased oil consumption and the entry of oil into the combustion chamber, which results in the production of blue exhaust smoke. Piston rings are responsible for sealing the combustion chamber, ensuring that the air-fuel mixture can ignite efficiently and that combustion gases do not escape. When these rings are compromised, oil can leak past them, causing it to burn during the combustion process. The presence of blue smoke is a visible indication that oil is being burned alongside the fuel, highlighting the issue with the piston rings. This symptom is a clear and direct result of the functionality of piston rings and is an important observation for diagnosing engine problems.