What causes an automobile engine to have a cylinder head issue?
2 Answers
There are five main reasons for an automobile engine cylinder head issue: 1. Combustion chamber: Hard objects falling into the combustion chamber; 2. Exhaust valve spring: Intake and exhaust valve springs breaking, causing the valve to drop into the cylinder; 3. Piston size: The geometric dimensions of the piston replaced during an overhaul do not meet requirements; 4. Connecting rod bearing: The thickness of the connecting rod bearing replaced during an overhaul is too thick; the gasket is too thick. Additional relevant information is as follows: 1. Maintenance of automobile engines: Automobile engines should be cleaned at appropriate intervals. Prolonged use can form a thick layer of carbon deposits on the engine's surface, which can significantly corrode the rubber components in the engine. 2. Preventing evaporation of gasoline and water: During summer, temperatures are generally higher. As a result, gasoline and water evaporate more easily than usual. Therefore, it is necessary to frequently check the radiator and fuel tank, and promptly refill when gasoline and water levels are low.
I've seen engine seizure several times, usually when the piston gets stuck in the cylinder or collides with other components, causing severe internal engine damage. The most common causes include timing belt or chain breakage, which disrupts the synchronization between pistons and valves, leading to direct metal-on-metal impact. Engine overheating is another culprit—whether from coolant leaks, poor heat dissipation causing part expansion/deformation, or insufficient/low-quality oil increasing friction and accelerating piston ring wear. If you hear loud metallic knocking while driving, sudden engine stall, or dramatic power loss, it's likely seizure. This isn't a minor issue—it may require major repairs or engine replacement. Immediately pull over, shut off the engine, and diagnose the cause; never attempt restarting to prevent catastrophic damage. Regular maintenance like oil changes and timing system inspections can prevent such disasters.
