Understanding the Sound of a Seized Engine

The sound of a seized engine can be quite scary and often leaves drivers wondering what exactly is happening under the hood. When a motor seizes, it stops functioning properly and can be a result of several factors. This article will help you understand the noises a seized engine makes and what to do if you ever encounter one.

Signs of a Seized Engine

One of the most common signs that your engine may be seized is the sound you'll hear when you try to start your car. Common sounds include:

Clicking Sound

When you turn the key and the car fails to start, you might hear a distinct clicking sound. This is often the first sign that something is wrong. The clicking comes from the starter motor as it tries to engage with the flywheel but fails to turn the engine over.

Clicking Sound with Starter Engagement

Specifically, what you hear is the ker-clunk as the starter solenoid engages with the flywheel ring gear. After this, silence follows as the engine fails to turn over, and shortly after, you might smell burning from the starter motor.

Rattling and Skidding Sounds

If your engine starts to seize, you may also hear a rattling noise initially. As the engine struggles and the RPMs drop, the rattling may increase. This is often followed by a skidding sound as the engine locks up, therefore locking the rear wheels.

What to Do If You Encounter a Seized Engine

Here are some steps you can take when your engine seizes:

Safe Pullover

Find a safe place to pull over, such as the nearest shoulder of the road. Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns, as this may cause further damage to the engine. Depress the clutch gently to help you coast to a safe location without relying on the engine's power.

Check the Oil

Check the oil level. If the oil is present but overly thick (like corn syrup), it could be due to low temperatures preventing proper lubrication. In such cases, you might need to thin the oil by adding gasoline. Just a small amount, enough to reduce the viscosity, should help the engine start again. Keep in mind that using gasoline consistently can damage the engine in the long term.

Additional Tips

For air-cooled engines, like the ancient VW Beetle, adding gasoline can be a temporary solution. However, water-cooled engines should never rely on this method due to potential damage from washing off the oil from cylinder walls.

Keywords

seized engine, aircooled engine, starter motor