Which condition would be the least likely caused by failed engine bearings?

The condition identified as least likely caused by failed engine bearings is low oil temperatures. When engine bearings fail, several repercussions can arise, primarily due to increased friction and metal-to-metal contact. This increased friction typically generates excess heat, which would lead to higher oil temperatures rather than lower.

High oil temperatures are a direct consequence of excessive friction and inadequate lubrication, which often occurs when bearings wear or fail. Low oil pressures can also result from failed bearings as they may disrupt the normal flow of oil, creating a situation where the oil pump cannot maintain adequate pressure. In addition, failed bearings invariably lead to engine noise, as the irregular surfaces create additional vibrations and sound.

In contrast, failing bearings do not generally lead to low oil temperatures. Instead, they contribute to conditions that raise oil temperatures, making low oil temperatures a less likely outcome of bearing failure.