How to Determine if an Engine Has Seized?
2 Answers
Engine seizure refers to a situation where the engine temperature becomes excessively high, causing the piston to expand and deform, getting stuck in the cylinder, and resulting in engine failure. Here are the details: 1. Introduction to Engine Seizure: In a gasoline engine, the process of combustion after the air-fuel mixture enters the combustion chamber is highly complex and requires precise design and control. If there is a control error or malfunction, abnormal combustion can occur, and "engine seizure" is one form of abnormal combustion. Simply put, engine seizure is caused by abnormal combustion leading to irregular pressure in the combustion chamber. 2. Causes of Engine Seizure: Design flaws. Engine seizure in a car is often due to quality issues in the vehicle. Design defects, such as poor engine cooling, can cause the engine temperature to exceed its maximum tolerance, leading to seizure. Insufficient lubrication. Engine oil plays a crucial role in lubrication. If the oil quality is poor or the oil fails to circulate properly, its lubricating performance is compromised, and cooling issues arise, which are also major causes of engine seizure. Excessive engine load. Overuse of the engine or operating under high loads can also lead to seizure. Faults in the intake/exhaust system or ignition timing. Incorrect adjustments in the engine's intake/exhaust system or ignition timing can similarly result in engine seizure.
That time my engine seized on the highway was truly terrifying. The car suddenly jerked violently and lost power completely - no matter how hard I pressed the accelerator, it wouldn't pick up speed. Metallic clanking sounds came from the engine bay, like someone hammering on a tin box. Then the dashboard water temperature gauge shot straight into the red zone, while blue smoke poured from the exhaust with a pungent burning smell. I immediately pulled over and shut off the engine, only to find engine oil leaking everywhere when I popped the hood. Later inspection revealed cracked pistons had scored the cylinder walls. Definitely not an experience I want to repeat - now I become extremely vigilant whenever there's abnormal engine vibration accompanied by unresponsive throttle input.
