Engine does not turn over?

Tiny
OTIMA22010
  • MEMBER
  • 2013 CHEVROLET MALIBU
  • 2.5L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 215,000 MILES
Recently driving the vehicle when the "engine power has been reduced" indicator came on. Couple of days later, while driving, car hesitated while driving and started to slow down and more I increased on the accelerator, the more the power reduced, and it eventually cut off. Open the hood, and there was oil all over the lower part of the engine. Checked the level and it showed there was oil on the dipstick but approx. One quart low. Keep in mind there was oil that had shot all over the lower engine, but no big amount on the ground under. Now when ignition switch is turned, engine doesn't not turnover, but instead a whining sound is heard for approx. Three to four seconds then nothing.
Monday, December 26th, 2022 AT 2:17 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,144 POSTS
Hi,

Would it be possible for you to record it so I can hear the whine you are referring to and a couple of pics of the oil? That would really be helpful.

Since you saw oil low on the engine, first, check the oil filter which is at the front of the engine to make sure it is tight and not leaking. See pic 1

If that is good, on the back side of the engine is the oil drain plug. Make sure it is tight, See pic 2 below.

Let me know. Also, if you could record it cranking and upload it, that will likely be very helpful,

Let me know.

Joe

See pics below.
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Monday, December 26th, 2022 AT 9:24 PM
Tiny
OTIMA22010
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Hello Joe,

Attached you will have the request you required. Hope it's something minor-to-mid. Battery has been texted and found to be good.

Thanks
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2023 AT 12:06 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,144 POSTS
Hi,

I listened to it. It has little to no compression. I suspect the timing chain has jumped time. Now for the worse news. This is an interference engine. Basically, there isn't enough room between an open valve and the top of the piston if the timing is off. As a result, they hit and internal damage to the engine occurs. I believe that is the knock I heard when you first started cranking the engine.

If you want to confirm what I'm saying, first check the engine compression. Here is a link that explains how it's done. You will need a compression gauge, but most parts stores will lend one to you.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-test-engine-compression

I have a feeling you will find three of the cylinders with little to no compression and one of them will have more. I'm basing that on how the engine sounds.

Try that test and let me know the results. Also, let me know if you are interested in removing the cylinder head and timing chain to confirm my suspicions

Also, if I am correct, the internal damage will have damaged several valves and possibly the cylinder head and piston tops.

Let me know.

Joe.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2023 AT 7:51 PM
Tiny
OTIMA22010
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Joe,

Thanks for the info. I will definitely get back to you when something is confirmed.

Thank you for the update and info.
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Wednesday, January 4th, 2023 AT 9:06 PM

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