When a car’s engine can no longer run, it is said to be blown. The engines are usually damaged by a cracked block, damaged intake valve, or deformed cylinder head. This often wouldn’t stop the cars from starting. As a result, many people always wonder if you can drive a car with a blown engine. If this is among your worry, search no further.
Here is the short answer! Yes, you can drive a car with a blown engine. However, this is not recommendable. Driving with a blown engine risks irreversible vehicle damage and endangers yourself and other road users. Cars with blown engines may still start, but you risk a huge fire if you do not do so quickly.
Are you still having doubts? Read on to learn more as we explore everything you need to know regarding whether or not you can drive your car with a blown engine.
Can you drive a car with a blown engine?
While it appears that a blown engine might not start, there is the chance that it would, and if it does, you will be able to drive.
However, although a blown engine will start, it will not drive properly. It may not even make it to the end of the road. That’s because a blown engine means at least one of the pistons isn’t going up and down the way it should.

Driving a car with a blown engine is never a good idea. Yes, the vehicle will move, but it’s dangerous, and you must be cautious while driving. If you suspect your engine has blown, you should take the vehicle to a repair. They’ll figure out what’s wrong and advise you to fix it or build another one altogether.
Is Driving With A Bad Engine Safe?
If your engine is bad, you could cause a traffic hazard. Misfires can harm your driving skills and mileage. Persistent engine malfunctioning can destroy your catalytic converter, cause your car to vibrate, and even force it to backfire, posing additional risks.
What are the risks involved in driving a vehicle with a blown engine?
Once your engine blows, it doesn’t produce enough power and torque to keep your car moving. As a result, you lose a lot of control over the car. Generally, you may still be able to drive, but it will take more effort because you will be fighting the car every step of the way.
Also, driving a car with a blown engine puts other car parts at risk. Because all of your car’s systems must compensate for what’s going on inside the engine block, driving with a blown engine puts a burden on them. Other parts, such as the crankshaft, oil pump, suspension system, and others, may be affected.
Again, your car will stall if your engine fails. It won’t happen all at once; instead, your car will grow increasingly difficult to start over time. You’ll know it’s time to go for an engine check before something serious occurs when this happens.
Lastly, driving with a blown engine is considered an act of irresponsibility. This isn’t to imply that driving long distances with a blown engine isn’t dangerous. It does, however, indicate that you’re more likely to be in an accident than if your engine is in good functioning order.
How can I know when my engine is failing?
There are several indicators that your car’s engine is no longer functional. If you ignore a few of these warning flags, it might be disastrous for your finances and safety. Some of these indicators include;
- Strange noise when you start your car
- When you accelerate or brake, the engine makes a strange noise.
- Poor engine performance
- Low fuel economy
- High tailpipe emissions
If you detect any of these problems, it’s time to take your car to an expert for inspection. Don’t put it off until it’s too late!
How can you tell if your engine has blown?
If you notice the following signs in your engine, you can tell it has blown.
- Knocking sound.
- A tremendous rise in the exhaust smoke levels.
- Inadequate power.
- When you find metal shavings during oil changes.
- A smoking hood.
What should I do if my engine breaks down while driving?
The car loses power steering and brakes first when the engine dies. Apply the foot brake and slowly steer over to the side of the road if you’re driving on the side of the road. After you switch on your hazard lights, your car should restart.
What do I do when my car’s engine blows?
Once you can a car engine expert discovers that your car’s engine has blown, you want to;
- Make sure the car’s engine is blown for real.
- Determine whether it is cost-effective to rebuild your engine.
- Consider upgrading your vehicle.
- Consider reselling the car parts for cash.
- Look for buyers who specialize in automobiles with faulty engines.
Can my insurance cover my car’s engine if it blows?
Typically, your insurance policy will not cover you if you damage or misuse your vehicle.

What are the signs that my engine works properly?
There are various indicators that your car’s engine is in good working order – you simply need to know what to look for and how to interpret the data. The following techniques will guide you.
- Check for leaks and damage under the hood.
- Check that all fluids are at the proper levels.
- Check your vehicle’s emissions.
- Keep an ear out for unusual engine noises.
If all of the above are intact, you can ensure your car is in good working condition.
Conclusion
Driving a car with a blown engine is extremely dangerous. If you suspect your engine has blown, you should take your car to a repair. They’ll figure out what’s wrong and offer you an estimate of how much it’ll cost to fix it. Get your automobile checked out if you hear strange noises or it’s not operating properly. It could save you a lot of money in the long term.
Driving with a blown engine is dangerous and costly, especially over long distances!
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Sourav Biswas is here! I write for the VehicleOnly Automotive Blog and am passionate about automotive tools. I am also a publisher on Amazon & Medium.
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