How to Know if Your Car’s Engine is Interference
An interference engine is an engine in which the valves can come into contact with the pistons if the timing belt or chain fails. This can cause catastrophic engine damage, so it’s important to know if your car has an interference engine.
What is an Interference Engine?
In a non-interference engine, the valves are designed to “float” if the timing belt or chain fails. This means that they will not come into contact with the pistons, even if the timing is off. However, in an interference engine, the valves are not designed to float. If the timing is off, the valves can hit the pistons and cause serious damage.
How to Tell if Your Car Has an Interference Engine
There are a few ways to tell if your car has an interference engine:
- Check your owner’s manual. The owner’s manual should state whether or not your car has an interference engine.
- Look for a sticker under the hood. Many manufacturers place a sticker under the hood that indicates whether or not the engine is interference.
- Consult a mechanic. If you’re not sure whether or not your car has an interference engine, you can consult a mechanic. They can inspect your engine and tell you if it is interference.
What to Do if Your Car Has an Interference Engine
If you have a car with an interference engine, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to avoid timing belt or chain failure.
- Have your timing belt or chain inspected and replaced regularly. The timing belt or chain is a critical component of your engine, and it’s important to have it inspected and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
- Avoid over-revving your engine. Over-revving your engine can put stress on the timing belt or chain, and it can increase the risk of failure.
- Be aware of the symptoms of timing belt or chain failure. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it’s important to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible:
- Engine misfires
- Loss of power
- Knocking or rattling noises from the engine
- Leaking coolant
Conclusion
Knowing if your car has an interference engine is an important part of car ownership. If you have an interference engine, it’s important to be aware of the risks and to take precautions to avoid timing belt or chain failure.
