A cracked engine block is one of the most serious and costly issues a vehicle can experience. The engine block is the foundation of your car’s engine, and when it cracks, it can lead to oil leaks, coolant loss, overheating, and even complete engine failure. If your engine block is cracked, you’ll need to decide whether to repair it or scrap the car.
What Causes an Engine Block to Crack?
1. Overheating – Extreme heat causes metal to expand, and if the engine overheats, the block can warp or crack.
2. Freezing Temperatures – If the coolant freezes, it expands and can crack the engine block from the inside.
3. Low Coolant Levels – Running with too little coolant causes the engine to overheat, leading to cracks.
4. Manufacturing Defects – Some engine blocks develop cracks due to faulty casting during production.
5. High Mileage & Wear – Over time, repeated heat cycles and stress weaken the engine block, making it more likely to crack.
Signs of a Cracked Engine Block
If you notice these warning signs, your engine block might be cracked:
- Overheating – The engine runs hotter than normal, even with proper coolant levels.
- Coolant Leaks – Puddles of coolant under your car, often with no visible hose leaks.
- Oil Leaks – Oil dripping from the bottom of the engine, or oil mixing with coolant.
- White Smoke from the Exhaust – Coolant burning in the engine creates thick white exhaust smoke.
- Check Engine Light – A cracked block can trigger engine warning lights.
- Loss of Engine Power – The car struggles to accelerate or misfires frequently.
Can a Cracked Engine Block Be Repaired?
Possible Repair Methods
Cold Metal Stitching – Uses metal pins to repair small cracks.
Welding the Block – High-heat welding to fill cracks, but not always reliable (£1,000+).
Engine Block Sealers – Temporary fix using chemical sealants (£50–£100), but only works for small cracks.
When Repairs Aren’t Worth It
If the crack is large or spreading, repair may not be possible.
If coolant and oil are mixed, internal engine damage is likely.
A full repair isn’t worth the cost if your car is old or has multiple issues.
If an engine replacement costs more than the car’s value, scrapping is a better option.
Should You Repair or Scrap a Car with a Cracked Engine Block?
When to Repair
The crack is small, and repair costs are reasonable.
The car is relatively new and still worth significant value.
You plan to keep the car long-term.
When to Scrap the Car
Repairs cost more than the car’s worth.
The crack is large, spreading, or causing coolant/oil mixing.
Your car has other major issues (transmission failure, electrical problems, rust).
The car is 10+ years old and likely to have more problems soon.
Why Sell Your Car with a Cracked Engine to Buy Scrap Cars & Vans?
Top Cash Offers – We pay the best rates for scrap and damaged cars.
Free Collection – No hidden fees—we pick up your car for free.
Hassle-Free Process – No need to repair or remove parts.
Eco-Friendly Recycling – Licensed auto salvage & car scrappers.
All Cars Accepted – Non-runners, accident-damaged, MOT failures—we take them all.
How It Works
Get a Free Quote – Provide your car’s make, model, and condition.
Schedule Free Collection – We pick up your car at a time that suits you.
Get Paid Instantly – Receive cash on the spot when we collect your car.
FAQs
Yes! We buy cars with engine problems, non-runners, and MOT failures.
The price depends on weight, metal value, and salvageable parts. Contact us for a free quote.
No! We offer free collection anywhere in our service area.
Contact Us
Ready to turn your totaled car into cash? Get started today:
We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans
Yard 1 A, Mount Alexander,
Fort William, The Highlands, PH33 7NF
Phone: 0800 680 9005
Email: buyer@webuyscrapcarsandvans.co.uk
WhatsApp: 4407979603739