How Long After the Engine Water Temperature Reaches 100 Degrees Will Cylinder Scoring Occur?
3 Answers
After the engine water temperature reaches 100 degrees, cylinder scoring can occur after driving 1-2 kilometers. Below are specific details about engine cylinder scoring: 1. Causes: Engine cylinder scoring refers to the appearance of obvious longitudinal mechanical scratches and abrasions on the inner wall of the cylinder within the movement range of the piston rings. In severe cases, adhesive wear can occur, leading to difficulties in starting the engine or causing it to stall. The root cause of cylinder scoring is the inability to form an oil film between the cylinder wall and the piston rings or pistons, resulting in poor lubrication or even dry friction. 2. Prevention: The engine must be properly run-in. Correctly select the clearance between the piston skirt and the cylinder liner, as well as the end gap and side clearance of the piston rings. Maintain the cooling water temperature within the normal range of 70°C to 95°C to avoid engine overheating. Avoid overloading the engine, do not start the engine without sufficient coolant, and strengthen the maintenance of the air filter to prevent dust from being sucked into the cylinder.
Had an interesting experience at the repair shop the other day. Old Zhang's Passat kept driving even when the coolant temperature hit the red line. When we opened it up, the pistons had melted. Honestly, going over 100°C won't immediately cause cylinder seizure - it depends how much it exceeds. At 110°C it can last about ten minutes, but if it hits 120°C+, the piston rings might seize in just two minutes. Two key factors: first, whether you keep pressing the accelerator after the warning - at high temps engine oil thins out like water; second, the cooling system condition - if the fan's broken, you're definitely screwed in traffic. Fix minor radiator leaks immediately, don't wait until you get the engine overhaul bill to regret it.
I've been into car modifications for over a decade and have seen dozens of cases of cylinder scoring. When the temperature gauge hits the red zone, it's like the engine running a high fever at 40°C, gasping for breath. Short trips at around 100°C are fine, but the real danger comes during prolonged uphill climbs or traffic jams. Once during a scorching mountain drive, my engine endured 103°C for seven minutes before blue smoke started puffing from the crankcase. Always keep distilled water in the trunk for emergencies - if you see steam, never pop the hood until fully cooled. Turbocharged engines are more vulnerable, with cylinder liner deformation rates twice as high as naturally aspirated ones.
