3 Signs of a Blown Engine and What You Can Do About It
UPDATE: Goodwill Car Donations is currently accepting vehicle donations. Call 866-233-8586 to schedule an unattended FREE pickup. To learn what actions we are taking to ensure you are protected when you donate a vehicle to Goodwill Car Donations, please click here.
Wondering if your engine is in trouble? This post will show you how to spot the warning signs before things get worse. You’ll learn how a blown motor can affect your vehicle’s performance and safety, what causes serious engine damage (like overheating or water getting inside), and how to catch early signs like dashboard lights, strange sounds, and smoke. Knowing what to look for can help you take action before the damage becomes costly or dangerous. You’ll also learn what your options are — including how to turn your damaged vehicle into something meaningful.
A Damaged Engine Can Pose Dangers to You and Other Drivers
When you own a car, you’re not just paying for the vehicle — you’re signing up for regular checkups, maintenance, and repairs. If you use your vehicle daily, these responsibilities grow even more important.
Minor repairs like brake pads or tire replacements are common and manageable. But engine trouble? That’s a different story.
Your engine is the heart of your vehicle. If it fails, your automobile becomes nothing more than a parked shell. A damaged engine affects performance, fuel efficiency, and safety. It can put you — and others — at risk every time you’re on the road.
Engines can fail for many reasons. One major cause is engine overheating, often due to low or leaking engine coolant. Another is hydrolocking, which happens when your motor vehicle drives through deep water and the engine cylinders fill with liquid, causing the system to stall or fail.
To avoid these problems, stick to your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes and checkups can help prevent small issues from becoming big engine trouble.
3 Signs That Your Car Has a Blown Engine
Stay alert for signs that something may be wrong under the hood. If your truck, sedan, or SUV suddenly starts acting strange — whether it’s dashboard lights or weird knocking noises — pull over safely and check it out.
The worst-case scenario? You could be seconds away from full engine failure.
Here are three common symptoms that may point to engine problems:
- Check engine light is on.
The check engine light exists for a reason. It often points to engine issues that can lead to bigger problems if ignored. If this light comes on, don’t wait — have your car inspected as soon as possible.
Tip: Engine diagnostic tools can quickly identify whether the issue is minor or the early sign of a blown motor.
- Car performance has dropped.
Is your car slower to accelerate? Are you burning more fuel than usual? These signs may mean your engine isn’t running at full power.
You may also notice engine stalling or jerky movement — both are red flags that need attention.
- More smoke than usual.
An increase in exhaust smoke could mean something serious is wrong inside the engine block. Blue smoke might signal burning oil, while white smoke could point to coolant leaks — both are serious problems that could lead to a blown motor.
Any sudden change in engine noise, performance, or emissions is a signal that it’s time to act.
Answers to Common Questions About Blown Engines
How Long Can I Drive With a Blown Engine Before It Gets Worse?
It’s risky to drive at all with a blown motor. Even short distances can cause further damage to the combustion chamber or crankshaft, making repairs more expensive — or impossible.
What Risks Are There in Trying to Fix a Blown Engine Myself?
DIY repair might save money upfront, but blown engine repairs are complex. You risk causing more damage without the right tools or knowledge, especially if you misdiagnose the issue or overlook internal failures.
Should I Try Fixing a Blown Engine Myself or Contact a Professional?
Unless you’re an experienced auto repair professional with access to engine diagnostic tools, it’s usually best to call a mechanic. A licensed tech can properly assess engine damage and offer safe, long-term solutions.
How Can I Get My Car Ready for the Mechanic to Fix the Engine?
Start by documenting the symptoms — when they began, what sounds or changes you’ve noticed, and any dashboard lights. Then, check your engine oil and engine coolant levels. Share this information with your mechanic to help with faster diagnosis and repair planning.
Your Busted Car Still Has Value — Use It to Help Those in Need
Getting hit with a blown engine diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Repair costs are often sky-high — and there’s no guarantee your car will ever be like new again.
But a blown engine doesn’t make your car worthless. You can still put it to good use by donating it to support people in your community who are in need. You can do that by handing over that clunker to us at Goodwill Car Donations.
At Goodwill Car Donations, we accept vehicles in almost any condition. We’ll tow your vehicle for free, do any necessary fixes, and sell it at auction. The proceeds help support Goodwill organizations serving your area. These IRS-certified 501(c)(3) nonprofits provide job training, employment assistance, education, and support for people with disabilities, criminal records, or barriers to employment. That old vehicle can help change someone’s life.
To donate, all you have to do is contact us. We’ll handle everything else from that point on, including picking up and towing your vehicle at absolutely no cost to you. Plus, your donation may qualify you for a maximum tax deduction in the next tax season.
Furthermore, your gift will also allow you to savor the satisfaction of having served your community by helping empower your less fortunate neighbors. You can donate almost any type of vehicle even if it’s already in bad condition.
We handle the paperwork. We cover the towing. All you need to do is get in touch and we’ll take care of the rest.
For information about our quick and convenient vehicle donation process and other important matters, feel free to check out our FAQs page . If you have questions, call us at 866-233-8586 or leave us a message here.
Turn Over Your Clunker to Us Today!
Are you ready to turn your broken-down vehicle into something that gives back?
Call Goodwill Car Donations at 866-233-8586 or fill out our online donation form today. You’ll clear space in your garage, help your neighbors, and potentially save money on your taxes.
Last Updated: August 7th, 2025