What will occur as a result of failing piston rings?

Failing piston rings can lead to engine smoking due to the excessive oil that gets past the worn rings into the combustion chamber. As the engine operates, this oil burns along with the fuel, resulting in noticeable smoke from the exhaust. It is a common sign of piston ring failure, as these rings are responsible for sealing the combustion chamber and preventing oil from leaking into it. When they fail, this crucial function is compromised, leading to the symptoms of smoke that can be seen when the engine is running.

The other options, while they can indicate engine problems, do not directly stem from failing piston rings. For example, a car that won't start may be due to a variety of electrical or mechanical issues unrelated to the rings. Backfiring usually indicates a timing issue or fuel mixture problem rather than ring wear. Poor fuel economy can arise from various factors, including poor combustion efficiency, but is not as directly tied to piston ring failure as the occurrence of engine smoking.