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What happens if an engine locks up while driving?

What happens to your car if the engine locks up while you’re driving? Are you still able to drive or does the car stop?

avatar
Liz Jenson · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Your car will probably stop if your engine locks up while you’re driving. You might also notice that your engine sounds very rough or makes a strange knocking
noise
, both of which can indicate a seized engine.
The most common reason that an engine will seize while driving is a lack of oil. As such, you might notice your oil light come on before your engine seizes up. Other symptoms of a seized engine include poor acceleration and the knocking noise that was previously mentioned.
If you’re worried that your engine might seize up, check out your roadside assistance options with
Jerry
. Jerry’s roadside assistance membership protects you with its nationwide network of 55,000+ service providers for as low as $4.16 a month. Download the app to learn more.
MORE:
Does insurance cover engine failures?
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