engine failure

[The Specialist]

As I was driving along the engine suddenly began shuddering, running very roughly, and making a throbbing noise. I immediately pulled over to check things out. Nothing was visually wrong, and the oil was just fine. The check engine light came on after a few minutes of idling, and on the way to the shop (just 3 miles away), it began blinking. The sound is loudest near the left (driver's) side of the engine, and behind it, near the turbo. Any ideas what's wrong?

Here's a video I shot of it running roughly, a minute after I first pulled over.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cULIZZdOPmo

[RockitShip]

Sounds like an exhaust leak (the ticking noise). But there's also a knocking sound too. Hopefully the knock is from the loose part of exhaust, turbo, whatever, that was knocked loose and making the knock noise. Otherwise the knock could be as bad as a connecting rod or valve, etc.

Whatever is going on, when the engine light blinks that means you should immediately stop driving it. Get it checked out ASAP (towed in preferably).

Good luck!

[Aviator]

It's making the same sound as if a spark plug has come out of its cylinder, and compression is blowing past it. Also, might want to see if the short rubber turbo coupler (attached to the turbo itself) has come off or has a hole blown out of it.

Dave.

[The Specialist]

Just heard from my mechanic. He said it had two bad coil packs (I believe he called it a direct injection cassette) and was only firing on three cylinders. Parts were <$100, and I should have it back this afternoon. Thanks for the replies.

Sheldon

[Aviator]

I believe he called it a direct injection cassette

Right then!! Best clarify that with him, as there's nothing in that engine bearing that name!! I think you've got more than misfires going on there too.

Dave.

[The Specialist]

Did I say injection? I meant ignition. He described it as "under the black plastic strip on top of the valve cover." I was hoping it was just coils instead of a burnt valve or something. I also checked for a burst pipe off the turbo or broken exhaust while at the roadside and didn't see anything, so I'll keep my fingers crossed. I'll update again when I hear from him next.

[The Specialist]

RESULT:
Apparently the spark plugs on the #3 and #5 cylinders were leaking...one was loose and the other had blown completely out of the head. None of the threads were stripped in the head or on the plugs. A previous owner (or mechanic) had neglected to torque them down enough and they had backed out over time. My mechanic torqued down all five spark plugs, cleared the codes, and the thing is running like a champ. All told I was only out $75 for his diagnosis and time.

[Aviator]

I knew it.....and that was my very first Youtube diagnosis!! Good to hear it's sorted out. I've heard that sound maybe 3 times in 24 years, and it's the same thing each time.

Dave.