How long after a high-temperature warning does engine seizure occur?
2 Answers
It could range from a few kilometers to several hundred kilometers; there is no specific range for this issue. Once a vehicle's engine experiences overheating and continues to operate, it may stall or suffer from engine seizure at any moment. The most severe consequence could lead to complete engine failure. Additional relevant information is as follows: 1. Once a high-temperature warning appears, reduce the vehicle's speed and stop as quickly as possible while ensuring safety. 2. If driving on a highway, safely pull over to the emergency lane when there are no vehicles behind you. Turn on the hazard warning lights, place the warning triangle 150 meters behind the vehicle, and open the hood to allow the temperature to drop rapidly. Additionally, contact the highway traffic management department to report the parking situation.
The high-temperature warning light indicates abnormal water temperature, likely due to a cooling system issue. I often remind my friends that in such cases, they must immediately pull over and turn off the engine. Engine oil viscosity drops sharply under high temperatures, leading to rapid lubrication failure, increased friction between piston rings and cylinder walls, and a soaring risk of cylinder scoring. This can happen in just a few minutes, and during high-speed driving, severe damage may occur within three to five minutes. I once witnessed a case where the owner ignored the warning light for eight minutes, resulting in a seized engine requiring major repairs. It's advisable to first turn on hazard lights, let the engine cool, and check the coolant level. If it's low, add distilled water as an emergency measure. Avoid driving to the repair shop yourself—it's best to call a tow truck. Delaying repairs can easily lead to costs exceeding tens of thousands.
