When your engine refuses to turnover, it can indicate a locked or seized engine. It’s possible at this time that your car makes loud noises and simply shuts off. Can you fix a locked or seized engine?
Can A Seized Engine Be Fixed?
The most common cause of this issue is the starvation of oil. This means either when the oil is not going through the system properly or is there is no oil in the car. This can cause metal parts of the engine to rub against one another, which creates a lot of heat. Eventually, this can lead to engine damage of various degrees.
If your car engine has not been running, it can also seize because the rings of the piston ultimately freeze against the cylinder walls. This generally happens to older vehicles.
Hydrolocked Engine
This occurs when water enters the engine’s combustion chamber. In some cases, the piston is unable to reach the top end of its stroke as water will prevent compression. This will stop your engine.
At lower RPMs, however, you may be able to escape with only minor damage to the engine. At higher RPMs, busted pistons and connecting rods bending is almost inevitable.
Vapor Locked Engine
While this does not equal your engine not turning over, it does mean the engine will fail to start. It is an issue with the fuel system, which is often found on cars with age and lots of mileage.
With gasoline in the pump or fuel lines turning to gas from liquid, the engine can become starved of fuel. The engine will lose power at this time, eventually shutting off. The car will not restart.
Seized Engine Causes
Here are a few common causes of seized engines:
- The engine vapor lock is related to excess heat. Fuel in the lines will turn to vapor, typically due to hot weather and being stuck in heavy traffic. Your fuel pump is incapable of moving vapor.
- Water has ultimately entered the engine when it becomes hydrolocked.
- In the event of a bad starter or seized engine, running out of oil or missed oil changes can be the cause.
- It could also be due to a broken oil pump.
Can You Rebuild A Seized Engine?
When your engine has seized due to oil starvation, a rebuild may be possible. This will require a thorough mechanical inspection, though. Also, be on the lookout for an engine that has overheated once it has locked or seized. A warped engine can occur due to heat. In the event of major engine damage, repair costs can easily exceed $3,000.
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
