A locked-up engine is one of the most serious mechanical issues a vehicle can experience. If your engine has seized, it means the internal components are no longer moving, which can lead to costly repairs or even render the car undrivable. But don’t panic—there are still options!
In this guide, we’ll explain why engines lock up, how to diagnose the issue, potential repair options, and whether scrapping the car is the best choice.
What Causes an Engine to Lock Up?
Lack of Oil (Oil Starvation)
Engines require oil to lubricate moving parts. If the oil runs too low or is never changed, friction increases, causing the engine to seize.
Overheating
If your engine overheats, metal parts can expand and seize together, preventing the engine from turning over. This often happens when the cooling system fails.
Water or Flood Damage (Hydrolock)
If water enters the engine through the air intake (common in flooded areas), it cannot be compressed like air, causing the engine to lock up suddenly.
Internal Component Failure
A broken piston, rod, or crankshaft can jam the engine, preventing it from rotating. This is common in high-mileage or poorly maintained vehicles.
Faulty Starter Motor (Less Severe)
In some cases, a weak or damaged starter motor may seem like an engine lock-up but is actually just preventing the car from turning over.
Signs That Your Engine Is Locked Up
Engine Won’t Start – Turning the key or pressing the start button results in nothing happening.
Loud Knocking Sounds – If the engine seizes while driving, you may hear a loud knocking or clunking noise.
Burning Smell – Overheated components may give off a burning oil or metal smell.
No Movement from the Crankshaft – The crankshaft won’t turn when trying to start the engine.
Sudden Stalling – If the engine locks up while driving, the car will stop suddenly and won’t restart.
What to Do If Your Engine Locks Up
Step 1: Check Your Oil Level
If the oil level is extremely low, refill it and try starting the car.
If oil is dark, sludgy, or contaminated, an oil change may help.
Step 2: Try Manually Rotating the Crankshaft
Remove the spark plugs and attempt to turn the crankshaft manually using a wrench.
If it doesn’t move, the engine is likely fully seized.
Step 3: Check for Hydrolock (Water in Engine)
Remove spark plugs and check for water or moisture.
If water is present, it must be fully drained before attempting to start the car.
Seek Professional Diagnosis
A mechanic can determine whether repairs are possible or if the engine is beyond saving.
Should You Repair or Scrap a Car with a Locked-Up Engine?
When to Repair
If the repair costs less than the car’s value.
If the car is relatively new with a high resale value.
If the issue is minor, like a faulty starter.
When to Scrap
If the engine is beyond repair or requires a full replacement.
If the repair cost is more than the car’s value.
If the car is old and has additional mechanical issues.
If you need quick cash rather than spending money on repairs.
Selling a car with a seized engine to a scrap yard can still get you a good payout, as metal weight and salvageable parts hold value.
Why Sell Your Car with a Locked Engine to We Buy Scrap Cars & Vans?
Instant Cash Offers – We pay top rates even for non-running cars.
Free Collection – No towing fees—we pick up your car for free.
Hassle-Free Process – No need to repair or remove parts.
Eco-Friendly Recycling – We responsibly recycle or salvage parts.
Any Car Accepted – From engine-locked vehicles to accident-damaged cars, we take them all!
How It Works
Request a Free Quote – Provide your car’s make, model, and condition.
Schedule Pickup – Arrange for free collection at a convenient time.
Get Paid Instantly – Receive cash on the spot when we collect your car.
FAQs
Yes! We buy cars in any condition, including those with seized engines.
The price depends on the weight, metal value, and salvageable parts. Contact us for a free quote.
We still accept cars with missing engines, batteries, or other components.
Contact Us Today
Turn your car into cash quickly and conveniently:
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