What are the causes of engine crankshaft wear?
2 Answers
The main cause of engine crankshaft wear is poor lubrication, and it may also be caused by the engine running at high speeds for extended periods. The crankshaft is a very important component in the engine. The crankshaft and connecting rods are the components that convert the up-and-down motion of the pistons into rotational motion. The small end of the connecting rod is attached to the piston, while the large end is connected to the crankshaft. The crankshaft rotates and connects to the flywheel, which is linked to the transmission. This way, power is transferred from the crankshaft to the transmission, then from the transmission to the half-shafts, and finally from the half-shafts to the wheels. The engine contains oil, which forms a protective film on the surfaces of various components during operation, preventing direct contact and friction between them. If the oil fails to form a stable film, it can accelerate engine wear.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I believe crankshaft wear is primarily caused by neglecting minor details. For instance, failing to change engine oil on schedule or using cheap products leads to inadequate lubrication, causing direct metal-to-metal friction that accelerates wear. Another major issue is poor driving habits, such as frequent hard acceleration or braking, which increases engine vibration and subjects the crankshaft to excessive impact. Additionally, not replacing a dirty air filter promptly allows dust to mix with the engine oil, scratching the crankshaft surface. I recall my old car had similar issues—excessive noise during startup, and upon inspection, we found grooves worn into the bearing shells. In truth, simply maintaining regular servicing habits, using high-quality synthetic oil, and frequently checking oil levels and contamination can prevent these problems. Severe wear reduces engine power and may even lead to oil burning, increasing repair costs.
