In many ways, people take their cars for granted, believing that topping them up with gas every week and treating them to an occasional wash is enough to keep them in good condition. Until, of course, something goes wrong. Then, it’s a frantic search for an automotive genius who can diagnose and repair the problem both at light speed and for pennies on the dollar. Perhaps one of the most serious and frightening issues your car can develop is an engine seize. After all, an engine is the heart of any vehicle, and having it stop out of nowhere is enough to make any motorist panic. Learn to recognize the symptoms and causes of an engine seize, as well as what to do in the event your vehicle experiences one, with Auto-Scrap’s compact guide!

What Is An Engine Seizure?

To function properly, an engine needs to be well lubricated with oil. If the oil is not circulating well or is absent from the engine altogether, its metal components will suffer from overheating and structural damage. One example of a possible consequence of an absence of oil in your engine are your bearings literally melting into your crank or camshaft! Such extensive and crucial damage to your engine will cause it to cease functioning, in a condition known as an engine seize.

Causes and Symptoms of An Engine Seize

There can be several causes of an engine seizure. Obviously, not engaging in frequent and/or regularly scheduled oil changes (either performed by you or a trusted mechanic) is a good way to ruin your engine.  Faulty components, such as a bad starter or a damaged engine oil pump, can also lead to an engine seizure.

Of course, if your car doesn’t start it may not necessarily indicate an engine seize. However, there are some tell-tale signs and symptoms that can lead you to diagnose your car as suffering from an engine seizure with a high degree of confidence. 

Some common symptoms of an engine seize can include:

• the inability of your car to start, however, the electric components (radio, etc.) can start just fine, 
• fumes, smoke, and even fire might emanate from your engine as it tries to turn over,
• loud cranking noises can be heard from your engine,
• pistons may become visible on your engine as other components break away,
• the car will not start but also give no other discernible symptoms (i.e. dead weight).

What Next? 

An engine seizure is a serious automotive issue. The first step you’ll want to take if you are experiencing this problem is to ascertain if the extent of the damage to your engine and the cost of repairs is worth undertaking, or if you should sell your car for scrap.

If the damage is not extensive and relatively inexpensive to repair, then you should obviously repair your car. However, if the damage is far-reaching and will cost more than what your car is worth, you should consider selling your car for scrap. 

Even cars suffering from a seized engine are valuable sources of used parts and raw materials to companies like Auto-Scrap, who will pay well for your used and non-functioning car. The money you get from the sale can be used to offset the cost of buying a new car, so it’s best to make your decision in a wise and timely manner!

For more information on engine seizes or to sell you car today, contact Auto-Scrap.