I have a Mitsubishi Chariot 1996 2.0 auto and would like to know how I can tell if I have a piston or ring problem. The last thing I want is to take the engine out to check. I am too scared to drive the car on a long journey, fearing the engine will pack in. There is some light smoke and the engine is spotless. The car used to stall upon starting, but was ok once the car was warm. The garage cleaned the throttle which was really dirty and the spark plugs were black. Since then I have not had the stalling problem. Please help.