What are the effects of engine temperature being too high or too low?

[OPeyton]

Engine temperature being too high or too low has the following effects: 1. If the engine temperature is too high, it leads to reduced cylinder air intake and abnormal combustion, resulting in decreased engine power or poor fuel economy; 2. High engine temperature can cause pre-ignition and knocking in gasoline engines; 3. High engine temperature accelerates wear of engine components due to poor lubrication, leading to seizure or damage of parts; 4. Low engine temperature makes ignition difficult or combustion delayed, increasing fuel consumption; 5. Engine oil viscosity increases, causing poor lubrication and exacerbating component wear, while also increasing power consumption; 6. Unvaporized fuel at low temperatures washes the cylinder surface, damaging the lubricating oil film and accelerating component wear; 7. Low engine temperature makes engine starting difficult.

[JasonMarie]

After driving for so many years, poor engine temperature control is really troublesome. If the temperature is too high, the engine will overheat, increasing friction between internal parts like pistons and cylinders, which can easily lead to deformation or burn-through, and in severe cases, even engine seizure. That time my car overheated, coolant sprayed out, and after stopping, I found the engine oil had thinned. Prolonged high temperatures also accelerate component aging and shorten engine life. On the other hand, if the temperature is too low, such as during a cold start, the oil becomes too thick and doesn’t lubricate well, increasing wear. I’ve experienced it in winter—the engine runs unevenly, fuel consumption increases, and white smoke appears. So, it’s essential to regularly check the cooling system and thermostat to avoid small issues turning into major repairs.

[VonLucia]

As an automotive enthusiast, I believe engine temperature management is crucial for performance. When the temperature is too high, engine efficiency drops sharply, power output weakens, and incomplete fuel combustion leads to a surge in fuel consumption. I've also noticed that high temperatures cause the cooling fan to operate under excessive load, generating noise. On the other hand, when the temperature is too low, especially during cold starts, oil fluidity is poor, accelerating wear on piston rings and bearing shells, which affects engine smoothness. Prolonged low-temperature operation also results in excessive exhaust emissions, which is not environmentally friendly. I recall watching race cars on the track—they always use thermostats and radiators to maintain the optimal temperature range. For us regular car owners, keeping an eye on the coolant temperature gauge and addressing any abnormalities promptly can prevent skyrocketing repair costs.

[AndersonAnn]

In my daily driving, engine temperature issues should never be overlooked. High temperatures can cause engine overheating, leading to breakdown risks, especially when the fan roars during traffic jams. Low temperatures exacerbate cold engine wear, making winter starts difficult and increasing fuel consumption. Maintaining proper temperature extends vehicle lifespan and avoids major repairs.