How to Free Up a Seized Car Engine
A seized car engine is a serious problem that can leave you stranded and frustrated. But don’t worry, it’s not always as bad as it seems. In many cases, you can free up a seized engine yourself with a little time and effort.
What Causes a Car Engine to Seize?
There are a few different things that can cause a car engine to seize. The most common cause is a lack of oil. When an engine doesn’t have enough oil, the moving parts will start to rub against each other, causing friction and heat. This can eventually lead to the engine seizing up.
Other causes of a seized engine include:
- Overheating
- Coolant leaks
- Broken timing belt or chain
- Hydrolocked engine (caused by water getting into the cylinders)
How to Free Up a Seized Car Engine
If your car engine has seized, there are a few things you can do to try to free it up.
1. Check the Oil Level
The first step is to check the oil level. If the oil level is low, add oil until it reaches the full mark on the dipstick. If the oil level is full, then the problem is likely something else.
2. Turn the Engine Over by Hand
If the oil level is full, the next step is to try to turn the engine over by hand. To do this, you will need a socket wrench and a breaker bar. Place the socket wrench on the crankshaft pulley bolt and try to turn the engine over. If the engine turns over easily, then the problem is likely not a seized engine.
3. Use a Penetrating Oil
If you can’t turn the engine over by hand, then you can try using a penetrating oil. Penetrating oil is a type of solvent that can help to loosen up seized parts. Spray the penetrating oil into the spark plug holes and let it sit for a few hours. After a few hours, try to turn the engine over by hand again.
4. Use a Hammer
If the penetrating oil doesn’t work, then you can try using a hammer. Place the hammer on the crankshaft pulley bolt and tap it gently with a hammer. Be careful not to hit the bolt too hard, or you could damage the engine.
5. Use a Pry Bar
If the hammer doesn’t work, then you can try using a pry bar. Place the pry bar between the crankshaft pulley and the engine block and try to pry the engine over. Be careful not to pry too hard, or you could damage the engine.
6. Tow the Car to a Mechanic
If you can’t free up the engine yourself, then you will need to tow the car to a mechanic. The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the engine.
Conclusion
Freeing up a seized car engine can be a challenging task, but it is possible with a little time and effort. If you are not comfortable working on your own car, then it is best to tow the car to a mechanic.
