Introduction. The implementation of production and technological processes of machines on the vast territory of the Russian Federation is related to the necessity to operate them in low temperatures conditions. The article presents the results of the applied scientific research of the factors that have a negative impact on the operation process of internal combustion engines at low ambient temperatures. The use of the modern methods and means of diagnostics of the cylinder-piston group and the crank- engine mechanism make it possible to reliably establish the causes of the internal combustion engines failures.Materials and methods. In the course of the experimental studies the non-destructive testing, organoleptic, measuring and expert methods were used.Results. As a result of a comprehensive assessment of the engine failures causes, it was found that the breakdowns in the use of inappropriate operating materials at low temperatures, measures to prepare for the launch of diesel generator sets were the main reason for untimely start-up and the faults in cylinder-piston group and the crank mechanism elements, which led to emergency failure of the internal combustion engine.Discussion and conclusion. The proposed research results will make it possible to specificate the development prospects in the field of providing the reliability of internal combustion engines operation.