What Causes a Car to Catch Fire?

3 Answers
LucilleAnn
07/29/25 10:33am
When the engine is running, the high temperature of the ignition coil can soften, age, or crack the insulation layer of the high-voltage ignition wires. This makes it easier for the high-voltage electricity to penetrate the insulation, leading to electrical leakage. The continuous rise in temperature at the leakage point can ignite leaked gasoline from the engine or carburetor, ultimately causing a fire. Additional relevant information is as follows: 1. Grounding: Among fire accidents caused by common circuit faults, grounding is the most significant factor. Particularly, many new car owners, who cherish their newly purchased vehicles, may install alarms, upgrade high-end audio systems, or modify the vehicle's appearance. These actions can potentially lead to wire grounding, resulting in vehicle self-ignition. A common issue is the starter switch contacts sintering and causing welding, which prevents the starter solenoid from releasing. This can lead to prolonged starter operation (the safe starting time for a starter is 5 seconds), causing the starter to overheat and catch fire. 2. Note: Poor circuit connections or excessive local resistance can generate heat, causing the connection points to overheat and ignite flammable materials. When the vehicle is in motion or starting, backfire phenomena may sometimes occur, which can also lead to fires. If the vehicle's engine lubrication system lacks oil, the surfaces of mechanical parts may come into contact and move relative to each other, generating high temperatures through friction. If these parts come into contact with flammable materials, a fire may occur. Most modern cars are equipped with a three-way catalytic converter, which is located on the exhaust pipe and can reach very high temperatures. If the vehicle is parked improperly, such as near flammable materials, a fire may occur.
Was this review help?
7
5
Share
VonHenry
08/13/25 2:54pm
I've been driving for decades and witnessed too many spontaneous combustion incidents, mostly in older vehicles. Circuit aging is the most common cause - those wires with damaged insulation are like time bombs, sparking everywhere when short-circuited. Fuel line leaks are equally dangerous, with gasoline dripping onto scorching exhaust pipes potentially causing instant ignition. Some enthusiasts install high-power audio systems without upgrading wiring, often resulting in overloaded cables glowing red and smoking. Carelessly leaving perfumes or lighters in cars is also problematic, as they may combust under summer sun exposure. Remember: during maintenance, don't just focus on oil changes - clean engine compartment sludge and fallen leaves, and immediately address any cracked wire insulation. Last time my neighbor's car started smoking on the road, quick fire extinguisher use saved it - inspection revealed wiring issues. Early detection and resolution of these hazards is absolutely crucial.
Was this review help?
12
5
Share
Expand All
VanAriel
10/07/25 5:41am
We car enthusiasts know best that the core issue of vehicle spontaneous combustion is energy loss of control. Electrically, it's not just about aging and short circuits; upgrading headlights and audio systems beyond the original power ratings can overload and heat up the stock wiring. Fuel leaks become explosive when gasoline vapors meet hot turbochargers. Batteries also require attention, as old ones are prone to thermal runaway and fires. The exhaust system is even more dangerous—a clogged catalytic converter can reach 700°C, easily igniting nearby materials. Prevention hinges on diligent checks: I use a multimeter monthly to test the car's voltage for any leakage. Wrapping wires in flame-retardant materials and cleaning engine oil residue quarterly is crucial. Turbocharged cars need regular inspections of wiring harness proximity to exhaust pipes—never use substandard parts. Spontaneous combustion isn't about luck; it's the result of inadequate maintenance.
Was this review help?
4
5
Share
Expand All
More Forum Discussions

Is the original ID card required for annual inspection?

Annual inspection requires the original ID card. Materials required for annual inspection: Vehicle license, compulsory third-party liability insurance certificate, safety technical inspection certificate issued by the vehicle safety technical inspection institution, and the owner's ID card. Vehicle annual inspection schedule: According to the regulations of the Road Traffic Safety Law Implementation Ordinance, small cars are inspected once every 2 years within the first 6 years, and once every year after exceeding 6 years. New cars are exempt from inspection only in the first year, and then must be inspected once every two years within six years and once every year after six years as per regulations. Vehicle annual inspection location: Within the municipal area, vehicle owners can independently choose an inspection institution for the inspection. Vehicle inspection in another location refers to the vehicle being inspected in a place other than where it was purchased.
11
1
Share

What Are the Benefits of Four-Wheel Alignment Maintenance for Cars?

The most important aspects of four-wheel maintenance are dynamic balancing, checking for wear, and cross-rotation of the tires. It helps prevent the vehicle from pulling to one side and excessive wear on one side of the tires, significantly improving driving stability and safety, as well as extending the lifespan of the tires. Four-Wheel Alignment: Four-wheel alignment refers to the preset alignment angles of the vehicle's suspension system as designed by the manufacturer to ensure driving safety. Maintaining correct four-wheel alignment angles ensures the vehicle's straight-line stability, handling, and the recovery of the steering system. It prevents improper bearing stress and loss of precision, ensures tight contact between the tires and the road, reduces uneven tire wear, and enhances stability during turns. Precautions: When performing four-wheel alignment with an instrument, ensure the repair shop's alignment equipment is qualified. After alignment, check the printed data to confirm whether the front wheels' camber angle falls within the standard range.
19
3
Share

What traffic sign is the Langwang P symbol?

The Langwang symbol is a parking area sign. It appears in the driver's license test signs, featuring a P with an arrow symbol, Langwang, and a cup symbol, indicating a parking area. This sign is used to indicate the location of a parking area and is placed at the starting point of the deceleration lane. In China, modern road traffic signs are divided into two main categories: primary signs and auxiliary signs. Primary signs: Primary signs can be further classified into four types based on their meanings: warning signs, prohibition signs, mandatory signs, and guide signs. Auxiliary signs: There are five types of auxiliary signs, which are attached below primary signs to provide additional information. These signs cannot be used independently. Auxiliary signs are further categorized based on their purpose, including time-related, vehicle type-related, distance-related, warning and prohibition reason-related, and combined auxiliary signs. They are rectangular in shape with a white background, black text, and a black border. Additionally, there are variable traffic information signs that display real-time information based on road conditions (such as construction, congestion, traffic flow, direction changes, weather conditions, etc.), conveying messages to drivers and pedestrians. The functions of traffic signs include the following three aspects: Visual information: 90% of the information received while driving is visual. Human visual characteristics, such as depth and width of vision, eye movement, color recognition, effects of brightness and glare, speed judgment, etc., are fundamental considerations in setting up traffic signs. Information needs: Almost all information is received through visual communication. Therefore, when setting up traffic signs, attention should be paid to their visibility, comprehensibility, reliability, and positioning. Information processing: A driver's task includes acquiring information, processing it, selecting an action plan, implementing it, and repeating the process to observe the results. Due to the limitations of human behavior and the complex relationship between drivers, vehicles, and road environments, this process is highly intricate. When setting up traffic signs, factors such as driver expectations, reaction time, and short-term memory should also be considered.
7
4
Share

What rituals are needed when buying a new car for the family?

When bringing a new car home, some car owners have certain traditions, such as hanging red cloth, hosting a celebratory meal, setting off firecrackers, or sticking a gecko sticker on the rear of the car. These practices mainly depend on personal preferences. Choosing an auspicious date: Some car owners even pay attention to the date when purchasing a car. Besides avoiding days that clash with their zodiac sign, they also need to steer clear of inauspicious dates like 'Po Ri' (breaking day) or 'Shou Si Ri' (death day), which are considered unsuitable for buying a car. Applying a gecko sticker: The Chinese pronunciation of 'gecko' sounds like 'protection,' symbolizing safe travels and vehicle security. It is considered a very auspicious emblem. Hanging red cloth or red ribbons on the new car: In China, red represents joy and good fortune and is believed to ward off evil spirits. Tying red ribbons to a new car symbolizes safe travels and smooth journeys, bringing good luck.
6
1
Share

Is It Normal for New Cars to Grind Brake Pads?

It is normal for new cars to grind brake pads. Reasons for new cars grinding brake pads: This occurs because the brake pads and discs of a new car have not yet been properly worn in. The issue will resolve after some driving. Note that sometimes after driving in the rain, there may be unusual noises the next morning—this is normal due to slight rust on the brake disc surface. Prolonged inactivity can also cause noises, so regular driving helps prevent wear and tear. Details to consider when choosing brake pads: Check the friction coefficient, which determines the basic braking torque of the brake pads. If it's too high, it can cause wheel lock-up, loss of control, or overheating during braking; if too low, it may result in excessively long braking distances. Consider safety—brake pads generate instant high temperatures during braking, especially during high-speed driving or emergency stops. At high temperatures, the friction coefficient may decrease. Assess comfort, including braking feel, noise, dust, smoke, and odors, as these directly reflect the friction performance.
17
5
Share

What are the reasons why the Envision's trunk cannot be opened?

The Envision's trunk may not open due to issues with the linkage rod or lock cylinder, or mechanical component failure. Relevant information about the Envision is as follows: 1. Vehicle Positioning: The Buick Envision is positioned as a midsize SUV with a relatively large body size and spacious interior. This vehicle has a powerful appearance while maintaining a fashionable style, making it an ideal choice for young drivers. 2. Vehicle Design: Exterior-wise, the 2020 Buick Envision appears more rugged and imposing. The new wing-shaped chrome trim runs through the LED wing-shaped headlights, widening the horizontal visual effect. The dynamic front bumper design and three-dimensional silver lower guard create a full and powerful front end. The rear also features a three-dimensional wing-shaped design, with the chrome trim connected to the taillights, paired with integrated dual exhaust pipes to enhance the sporty feel. Interior-wise, the 2020 Buick Envision continues Buick's high-end interior quality and introduces a newly designed 10-inch HD touchscreen to elevate the technological feel. The vehicle also features front-row multi-function seats, adjustable-angle rear sliding seats, a large dual-opening central storage box, a heated steering wheel, and a two-piece panoramic sunroof. 3. Driving Performance: In terms of power, the 2020 Buick Envision offers a 2.0T SIDI direct-injection turbocharged engine paired with a 9-speed HYDRA-MATIC intelligent transmission and a 1.5T SIDI direct-injection turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed DCG-PLUS intelligent dual-clutch transmission. The former delivers a maximum power of 191kW/5500rpm and a peak torque of 400N·m/3000-4000RPM, achieving 0-100km/h acceleration in 8.2 seconds and a combined fuel consumption of 8.8L/100km. The latter delivers a maximum power of 124kW/5600rpm and a peak torque of 250N·m/1700-4400rpm, achieving 0-100km/h acceleration in 10.3 seconds and a combined fuel consumption of 6.6L/100km. All models meet the stringent 'China VI b' emission standards.
19
3
Share
Cookie
Cookie Settings
© 2025 Servanan International Pte. Ltd.