The Best Repair Shop in Lowell to Fix a Cracked Engine Block in Your Honda

by Mechanics Direct May 17, 2022

Honda is the world’s leading brand in engine manufacturing, producing over 23 million units per year. However, the engine blocks fitted in their 2006 to 2009 Civic were susceptible to cracks due to casting defects. This made Honda extend the warranty of all engine block failure in the 8th generation Civic to 10 years from the purchase date, which has since expired.

The engine block is the lower part of your engine that contains the cylinder, pistons, and connecting rods. When there is a crack in the engine block, the coolant leaks out, causing the engine to overheat. The cracks can occur within or outside the block, making its discovery somewhat difficult. Discussed below are some telltale signs of a possible crack in your engine block.

What are the signs of a cracked engine block?

The impact of a cracked engine block is usually swift and catastrophic. If you intend to keep your vehicle on the road for long, you need to act fast whenever you notice any of the signs discussed below.

• White fume coming from the exhaust pipe: There is a passage in the engine block that coolants pass through. Coolants escape into the engine cylinder when there is a crack in the engine block, which is then burned off during the combustion process. The white fumes coming from your vehicle’s exhaust is a result of the coolant in your combustion process. You may also notice a coolant/oil mixture due to the crack in the engine block.
• Oil or coolant leaks: Although spotting a crack in your engine block can be difficult, noticing coolant leaks is straightforward. The presence of coolants on the block or underneath your vehicle indicates a crack.
• Engine overheats: A cracked engine block allows the coolant to leak out, which affects the proper regulation of the engine temperature. In the absence of coolant for the adequate regulation of the engine temperature, the engine will overheat.
• Rough idle and engine misfire: A reduced engine performance is another indicator of a cracked engine block. The crack in the engine block affects your combustion pressure, which causes your engine to idle roughly or misfire.
• Combustion gas In the cooling system: When your cooling system is filled with combustion gas, it is evidence of a crack in your engine block. The crack allows excessive bubbles into your coolant even before it begins to boil. Combustion also puts the cooling system under extreme pressure.

Causes of Cracked Engine Block

With regular service and proper maintenance, you should get an average of 150,000 miles or ten years from your Honda engine. However, according to a Honda service bulletin, the engine blocks in the 8th generation Civic may experience coolant leaks or crack, especially if it overheats, resulting in premature engine failure. Discussed below are the common causes of a cracked engine block:

• Engine Overheating: The continuous overheating of your engine makes your engine operating temperature When an overheating engine is left unattended, it can result in costly or irreparable damage, such as a cracked engine block.
• Freezing Temperature: A freezing temperature negatively affects your engine block. When your coolant freezes, it expands within your engine, causing your engine block to crack.
• Casting and design flaws: Engine block cracks are also a result of manufacturing defects in some Honda models. The engine blocks of the 8th generation Civics (years 2006-2009, excluding the Hybrid and SI trim) are susceptible to cracks due to casting defects. Honda extended the warranty for all engine block failures in these models, which expired.

Mechanics Direct for Quality Maintenance and Repair Services

At Mechanics Direct, our ASE-certified mechanics are here to ensure that your engine is running smoothly and efficiently. We handle all Honda engine repairs and replacement, including cracked engine blocks.

Our facility is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and equipment to handle all transmission repairs, brake repairs, tire and oil change, and all factory maintenance. You won’t find a more qualified auto repair shop in or around Lowell, MA, than Mechanics Direct.

We also welcome drivers from North Chelmsford, Chelmsford, Dracut, Tyngsborough, and Westford. Please call or visit our shop to schedule your next service appointment! Our expert technicians & friendly staff are here to help.