What Causes Engine Block Cracking?
2 Answers
Engine block cracking can be caused by the following reasons: Only adding water to the radiator without antifreeze: When the external temperature is too low, the water inside the engine block freezes and expands, causing the block to crack. Adding excessive cold water directly to an overheated engine or splashing cold water on it: This can cause thermal shock to the engine block, leading to cracks. Severe impacts can also cause the engine block to crack. Relevant information about automotive engines is as follows: Introduction: The automotive engine is the power-generating device of a vehicle, serving as the heart of the car. It determines the vehicle's power performance, fuel economy, stability, and environmental friendliness. Common gasoline and diesel engines are both types of reciprocating piston internal combustion engines. Classification: Depending on the power source, automotive engines can be categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric motors for electric vehicles, hybrid systems, and other types.
I've encountered several tragic cases where cylinder block cracks led to complete engine failure. The most common cause is coolant freezing and expanding, cracking the block—especially among northern drivers who forget to change their antifreeze in winter. Overheating is another major culprit: continuing to drive with depleted coolant or a stuck thermostat that sends the temperature gauge into the red zone. Engine knock is a silent killer too; prolonged use of low-octane fuel creates violent combustion shockwaves. Some owners try saving money with substandard antifreeze, which corrodes cylinder walls and creates cracks. New car owners get particularly unlucky when inheriting factory defects like sand holes in the casting—these engines may start leaking coolant after just 10,000 km. Never ignore temperature warnings; immediate engine shutdown is the only survival tactic.
