## Can Lack of Use Cause a Car Engine to Seize?
Introduction
A car engine is a complex machine that requires regular use and maintenance to function properly. Failure to do so can lead to a variety of problems, including engine seizure. But can lack of use alone cause an engine to seize?
What is Engine Seizure?
Engine seizure occurs when the moving parts of an engine, such as the pistons and crankshaft, become stuck. This can be caused by a number of factors, including:
– Lack of lubrication
– Overheating
– Mechanical failure
How Can Lack of Use Cause Engine Seizure?
Lack of use can cause engine seizure in a number of ways.
– **Corrosion:** When an engine is not used, the oil that lubricates the moving parts can drain away. This can leave the metal surfaces exposed to corrosion, which can cause them to seize up.
– **Gumming:** The gasoline in a car’s fuel tank can also gum up over time. This can clog the fuel injectors and carburetor, preventing fuel from reaching the engine. Without fuel, the engine will not be able to run, and the lack of lubrication can lead to seizure.
– **Flat spots:** When an engine is not used for a long period of time, the pistons can develop flat spots. These flat spots can cause the pistons to stick in the cylinders, which can lead to seizure.
How to Prevent Engine Seizure from Lack of Use
There are a number of things you can do to prevent engine seizure from lack of use, including:
– **Run the engine regularly:** Even if you don’t drive your car very often, it’s important to start it up and let it run for a few minutes every few weeks. This will help to circulate the oil and prevent corrosion.
– **Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank:** Fuel stabilizer helps to prevent gasoline from gumming up. If you’re going to store your car for a long period of time, add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank before you do.
– **Use a battery tender:** A battery tender is a device that keeps your car’s battery charged. This is important because a dead battery can prevent you from starting your car, which can lead to engine seizure.
What to Do if Your Engine Seizes
If your engine does seize, there are a few things you can do:
– **Try to free the engine:** If the engine is seized, you may be able to free it by turning the crankshaft back and forth with a wrench. If this doesn’t work, you may need to have the engine professionally repaired.
– **Tow the car to a mechanic:** If you can’t free the engine yourself, you’ll need to have the car towed to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the engine.
Conclusion
Lack of use can cause a car engine to seize, but it is not the only factor. Other factors, such as lack of lubrication, overheating, and mechanical failure, can also lead to engine seizure. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent engine seizure and keep your car running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: How often should I run my car if I don’t drive it very often?**
A: You should run your car for at least 15 minutes every few weeks. This will help to circulate the oil and prevent corrosion.
**Q: What is the best way to store a car for a long period of time?**
A: To store a car for a long period of time, you should:
1. Wash and wax the car to protect the paint.
2. Add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank.
3. Use a battery tender to keep the battery charged.
4. Park the car in a dry, well-ventilated area.
**Q: What are the signs of engine seizure?**
A: The signs of engine seizure include:
1. The engine will not turn over.
2. The engine makes a loud banging noise.
3. The engine smokes or catches fire.
If you experience any of these symptoms, stop driving immediately and have the car towed to a mechanic.
