How do you know when you have a cracked piston?

Signs of a cracked piston include abnormal engine noises, such as knocking or rattling sounds, and decreased engine performance, such as loss of power or poor acceleration. You may also notice excessive oil consumption or the presence of oil in the combustion chamber, leading to blue smoke from the exhaust. Additionally, a compression test may reveal inconsistent or low compression in one or more cylinders, indicating potential piston damage. If these symptoms occur, it's essential to have the engine inspected by a professional.