How to Fix a Seized Car Engine

If your car engine has seized, it means that the moving parts have become jammed and the engine can no longer turn over. This can be a major problem, and it will require some serious mechanical work to fix it. However, with the right tools and knowledge, it is possible to repair a seized engine yourself.

Safety first

Before you start working on your engine, it is important to take some safety precautions. Make sure that the car is parked on a level surface and that the parking brake is engaged. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent any electrical accidents.

Gather your tools

You will need the following tools to fix a seized engine:

Socket wrench set
Wrench set
Hammer
Pry bar
Oil filter wrench
New oil filter
New engine oil

Steps to fix a seized engine

Once you have gathered your tools, you can begin the process of fixing your seized engine.

1. Remove the spark plugs

The first step is to remove the spark plugs. This will help to relieve some of the pressure in the cylinders and make it easier to turn the engine over.

2. Pour penetrating oil into the cylinders

Once the spark plugs are removed, pour some penetrating oil into each cylinder. This will help to loosen up the seized parts and make it easier to turn the engine over.

3. Let the penetrating oil sit

Allow the penetrating oil to sit in the cylinders for at least 30 minutes. This will give the oil time to work its way into the seized parts and loosen them up.

4. Try to turn the engine over

Once the penetrating oil has had time to sit, try to turn the engine over by hand. If the engine is still seized, you may need to use a pry bar to help break it loose.

5. Once the engine is turning over, continue to run it

Once the engine is turning over, continue to run it for at least 30 minutes. This will help to circulate the oil and further loosen up the seized parts.

6. Change the oil and oil filter

Once the engine has been running for 30 minutes, change the oil and oil filter. This will remove any metal shavings or other debris that may have been created during the seizure.

Conclusion

Fixing a seized engine can be a difficult task, but it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools and knowledge. By following these steps, you can get your car back up and running in no time.