Engine failure doesn’t happen overnight; it often exhibits warning signs beforehand. However, without knowing what to look for, many vehicle owners tend to ignore the red flags. When left unaddressed, a damaged engine can leave you stranded on the road, requiring the help of a towing service to get back home. Avoid this mishap by understanding why your engine seizes up and how to prevent it.

Why Your Engine Fails

1. Warping Parts

Vehicle engines produce excessive heat while running, and their cooling systems temper them down. However, when there’s a coolant leak, damaged water pump, faulty cooling fan, or blown head gasket, the engine tends to run hotter than usual.

The extra heat causes the metal components to expand. Without the necessary clearances between parts, they end up abrading and sticking to each other, which causes warping and cracking.

To reduce the risk of overheating, check your coolant levels frequently. You can also flush it out periodically to get rid of the old, corroded fluid.

2. Lack of Lubrication

The engine needs sufficient motor oil to lubricate its moving parts. When the oil runs low, there’s increased friction in its internal components, which leads to engine damage. Oil leaks, a faulty oil pump, debris-filled motor oil, and regular wear and tear are all reasons for insufficient lubrication.

3. Detonation

When your engine detonates, you’ll hear a knocking sound. Detonation results from abnormal combustion due to excessive pressure in the chamber. It damages the pistons, rod bearings, and head gasket of your engine.

A faulty exhaust gas recirculation system, increased compression, damaged spark plugs, and excess carbon buildup in the cylinders are some of the culprits behind detonation. When you hear a loud knocking noise, take your vehicle in for an inspection.

If you need towing services due to an engine failure on the road, turn to the professionals at Garrett’s Towing & Recovery Service of Thomasville, NC. They’ve provided 24-hour roadside assistance, including jump starts, fuel delivery services, tire changes, and vehicle recovery, to stranded motorists since 1969. For a quick response on towing, call (336) 476-3153 or visit their website.