Metal in Oil & Valve Noise: Outlander Crisis

Hey there! I've got some experience with cars (low level DIY mechanic here). Had a very similar issue with my 2011 Mitsubishi ASX Diesel last year. Those symptoms sound exactly like what I went through, scary metallic noises and metal in oil. Turned out to be a failed oil pump in my case. Took it to my trusted local workshop and they confirmed the diagnosis. Total bill was around 755€ including parts and labor. Don't drive it if you can help it, these symptoms can lead to catastrophic engine failure if ignored. Quick question: what's your current mileage? Also, when was your last oil change? This info would help me share more relevant details about my experience. Hope this helps! Let me know if you need more info.

My mileage is 86360 KM and had my last service about 4 months ago. Really appreciate your input about the oil pump, it's making me quite nervous now! I've already arranged for a tow to my local mechanic tomorrow morning. Did you notice any other warning signs before the oil pump completely failed in your case? Just trying to figure out if I caught it in time or if I'm looking at major engine work here.

Hey again! Thanks for the follow-up about your mileage and service history. Your situation is bringing back memories of my ASX troubles! In my case, I actually noticed some warning signs a few weeks before things got really bad. There was this subtle ticking noise at first, especially when the engine was cold, but I foolishly ignored it (big mistake!). At about 92,000 KM, the oil light started flickering occasionally, usually when idling. The metal particles showed up in my oil about a week before the pump completely gave up. The good news is that your mileage is a bit lower than mine was, and you're doing the right thing by getting it towed right away. I waited too long and ended up with some minor scoring on my bearings, which added to the repair costs. Sounds like you might have caught it earlier than I did! Quick tip from my experience, when they fix it, make sure they thoroughly flush the oil system afterward. My mechanic did that, and it probably saved me from having repeat issues with leftover metal particles. Keep me posted on what your mechanic finds. Really hoping it's just the pump like mine was and nothing more serious!

Thanks so much for sharing all those details about your experience! That's really helpful to know about the ticking noise and oil light flickering, I've actually been hearing that ticking for about two weeks now, but it wasn't as bad as it is now. You've definitely made me feel better about getting it towed rather than risking driving it to the shop. I'll make sure to mention the oil system flush to my mechanic too, that's a great tip I wouldn't have thought about. I'll update you once I get the diagnosis tomorrow. Really hoping it's just the oil pump like yours was and that I caught it in time. The fact that your ASX is running fine now after the repair gives me some hope! Thanks again for all your help, it's been really reassuring to hear from someone who's been through the same thing.