Engine knock?

2001 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
186,000 MILES • 2.2L • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
KOLEC94
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
I was going 70 on the highway and I heard a know the then the engine died. I saw oil under then car and that is about it. the motor is locked up. any idea what it could be?
Apr 5, 2016 at 11:22 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
KOLEC94
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
few hundred miles since last oil change
but just had brake pads changed
Apr 5, 2016 at 11:24 AM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
you kind of answered it your self the motor is locked up. it probably leaked oil out from maybe something hitting pan and draining oil out or it had been going bad like a rod bearing for a long time.
Apr 5, 2016 at 12:13 PM
Avatar
KOLEC94
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Would that make a sound before it broke?
Apr 5, 2016 at 4:39 PM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
yes you said it was knocking prior to lockup. you can try turning it over by hand. it could be the cams have locked and not the bottom end, but just from your description I think its' something else. Of course you can always have it looked at by a local pro
Apr 6, 2016 at 6:59 AM
Avatar
KOLEC94
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
No it knocked once then died
Apr 6, 2016 at 11:18 AM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
if the motor doesn't turn over with the starter then it should be tried to move backwards and forwards as it can be anything like a bolt binding the motor from a torque converter to a rod frozen. have a local pro look at this because it needs to be physically looked at to make a better diagnosis
Apr 6, 2016 at 12:01 PM
Avatar
KOLEC94
  • MEMBER
  • 18 POSTS
Ok I have another question
Being as my oil light is on would that cause a no start?
Apr 9, 2016 at 12:08 AM
Avatar
HMAC300
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 48,601 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
see if your engine will turn over by hand, I think your motor is locked up
Apr 9, 2016 at 6:35 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.