What It Means When You Have a Cracked Engine—and What to Do Next

Easter is here! And here in Wichita there is plenty to do to celebrate; from egg hunts to Easter brunch. So, we don’t want to risk engine trouble – like a cracked engine – ruining our fun. A cracked engine is one of the most serious problems your car or truck can face. Although the phrase may sound like an exaggeration, it refers to a real structural break in your engine block—a vital part of your vehicle’s internal system. When this happens, the damage can stop your car from running altogether.

In this blog, the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros explore what causes a cracked engine, what signs to look for, and what steps to take next to protect your vehicle and your wallet.

So, What Is a Cracked Engine Block?

A cracked engine means the solid metal block that houses the cylinders and internal components has split or fractured. This crack can lead to loss of compression, coolant leaks, oil leaks, or even engine failure. Unlike a small gasket issue, a cracked engine block usually requires major repairs or even a complete engine replacement.

What Causes a Cracked Engine?

Several common issues can cause your engine block to crack, and understanding them can help you prevent future damage:

• Overheating Problems – If your cooling system fails or your radiator runs dry, extreme heat can warp the metal and cause cracks to form.

• Freezing Conditions – When coolant is improperly mixed or absent, freezing temperatures can cause water in the engine to expand and crack the block.

• Excessive Engine Stress – Revving the engine too hard or towing loads beyond your vehicle’s limit can put major pressure on engine components and increase the risk of damage.

• Neglected Maintenance – Skipping oil changes, ignoring leaks, or using the wrong fluids can compromise your engine’s strength over time.

How to Tell If Your Engine Might Be Cracked

Catching the warning signs early can make a big difference. Here’s what to watch for:

• Sudden Engine Overheating – If your temperature gauge spikes quickly, your engine might be leaking coolant through a crack.

• Fluid Mixing or Leaks – When oil and coolant mix or spill out beneath your vehicle, a cracked block may be the culprit.

• Poor Performance – If your car misfires, stalls, or won’t start, engine compression loss from a crack could be the reason.

• White Exhaust Smoke – Unusual smoke coming from your tailpipe often signals that coolant is leaking into the combustion chamber.

What to Do If This Happens to You

Once you suspect a cracked engine, take immediate action. First, turn off your vehicle to prevent further damage. Then, have it towed to a certified mechanic for a professional diagnosis. Attempting to drive with a cracked engine could make the repair more expensive—or even impossible.

Depending on the severity of the crack, you might need a full engine rebuild or replacement. In some cases, if the crack is small and accessible, a mechanic can repair it using a high-strength epoxy or welding technique. However, only an expert can determine the right fix.

When to See a Mechanic at Tracy’s Tire Pros

Act quickly if you notice any of the following:

• Immediately after a severe overheating incident

• Right after your engine stalls and won’t restart

• When you see oil and coolant leaking together beneath your vehicle

• After discovering white smoke or bubbling in your radiator

Don’t Let a Cracked Engine Ruin Your Easter Holiday

Because a cracked engine can leave you stranded, don’t wait until it’s too late. The technicians at Tracy’s Tire Pros on East First Street in Wichita (and all their locations) uses advanced diagnostic tools to inspect your engine thoroughly and recommend the best solution. Whether you need a repair or replacement, we’ll help you make the most cost-effective decision. So call Tracy’s Tire Pros in Wichita today for a quick check-up and let us help you get safely back on the road.

Tracy’s Tire Pros can help you with any automotive issues that you may have. And they have three locations for your convenience:  West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N. And, Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.