So, your engine’s blown. It’s a sinking feeling, isn’t it? That awful sound, the sudden loss of power… it’s enough to make any car owner’s heart drop. Now you’re probably wondering, beyond the obvious “how much is this going to cost?”, will the car even try to start? Will it turn over? Let’s dive into what happens when an engine gives up the ghost and whether you can expect any signs of life when you turn the key.
Understanding a Blown Engine and Turning Over
First, let’s clarify what we mean by “blown engine.” This usually refers to catastrophic internal damage. Think cracked cylinder heads, broken connecting rods, or a seized crankshaft. These are all pretty serious issues! But does this damage directly prevent the starter motor from engaging and trying to crank the engine?
Can a Car Turn Over With a Blown Engine?
The short answer is: it depends. It’s not a simple yes or no. Here’s a breakdown:
- If the engine is completely seized: If the internal components are so damaged that they’re physically locked together, the engine won’t turn over. You’ll likely hear a click from the starter solenoid, but the engine won’t budge.
- If the engine isn’t completely seized: In some cases, even with significant damage, the engine might still be able to turn over. However, it will likely sound terrible – think loud knocking, grinding, or other unholy noises.
Interesting Tip: Even if the engine turns over, do not run it! Continuing to run a damaged engine can cause even more severe problems and potentially be dangerous.
Factors Affecting Whether a Blown Engine Will Turn Over
Several factors determine whether your car will attempt to turn over after an engine failure:
- Severity of the damage: A minor crack might allow some movement, while a completely shattered piston will likely seize the engine.
- Type of failure: A blown head gasket might not prevent turning over, but a seized crankshaft definitely will.
- Presence of debris: Broken pieces of metal can jam the engine’s internal workings, preventing rotation.
Checking for a Seized Engine Before Trying to Turn Over
Before you even attempt to start the car, there’s a simple test you can try (if you’re comfortable doing so). Try turning the crankshaft pulley by hand (using a wrench); If it won’t budge, your engine is likely seized, and attempting to start it could cause further damage to the starter motor.
What Happens When You Try to Turn Over a Blown Engine?
So, you turn the key. What can you expect?
- Nothing: If the engine is seized, you might just hear a click.
- Terrible Noises: If it turns over, be prepared for some awful sounds. This is the engine protesting its imminent demise.
- Smoke or Steam: Depending on the type of failure, you might see smoke or steam coming from the engine bay.
FAQ: Blown Engine and Turning Over
Q: Can a blown engine damage the starter motor?
A: Yes, repeatedly trying to start a seized engine can damage the starter motor. It’s putting a lot of strain on the motor, and it could burn out.
Q: Should I try to jump-start a car with a blown engine?
A: No, jump-starting won’t fix a blown engine. It’s just going to put more stress on the system and potentially damage other components.
Q: What’s the first thing I should do if I suspect my engine is blown?
A: The first thing you should do is stop driving the car immediately. Then, call a tow truck and have it taken to a trusted mechanic for diagnosis.
So, there you have it. Whether your car will turn over with a blown engine is a bit of a gamble. The best course of action is always to get a professional diagnosis. Don’t try to be a hero and fix it yourself unless you really know what you’re doing. Remember, safety first! A blown engine is a major headache, but with the right approach, you can get back on the road eventually. Good luck!
