What are the effects of engine knocking?

[StGarrett]

Mild engine knocking generally has no significant impact, but severe knocking can damage the engine and even lead to cylinder explosion. When continuous knocking occurs, the engine produces a clanging sound and exhibits noticeable power loss. If continuous and severe knocking happens under high RPM and heavy load conditions, it may cause spark plug and piston melting within one minute, or in extreme cases, even blast through the cylinder and engine block. Causes of engine knocking: 1. Higher compression ratio results in higher cylinder temperature at the end of compression stroke, increasing knocking tendency; 2. Advanced ignition timing: While not exactly premature ignition, advanced timing shows similar tendencies and may induce knocking; 3. Severe carbon buildup: Excessive carbon deposits on pistons and cylinder heads impair heat dissipation, creating localized hot spots. Alternatively, residual oil absorbed by carbon deposits may continue burning after exhaust stroke, forming ignition points that cause surface ignition.