Some Kia and Hyundai engines fail, but not because they are old, worn, or poorly maintained. These engines have a common problem that starts at the factory, where the engine parts are being made on the dies and presses on the assembly line. Could this manufacturing problem be a worry for many drivers? Let’s find out.

Engines need oil, but oil needs to get in

Regular oil changes are part of proper vehicle care and maintenance. Most manufacturers include a maintenance schedule with various required tasks at specific mileage marks. Most vehilces require oil changes every 5,000 miles, but that could be a problem for some Hyundai and Kia engines.

Oil lubricates the internal parts of an engine, keeping the metal cool enough to avoid warping while allowing these metal parts to work together thousands of times per minute. The oil must pass through the drilled crank holes to enter the engine cylinders lubricating the pistons and cylinders and keeping things running correctly.

What’s going on with Hyundai and Kia engines?

Engine failure happens for various reasons, one of which is a lack of oil in the cylinders. One mechanic posted a TikTok video showing poorly machined oil passages in Hyundai and Kia engines. It appears the oil passage on one end of the crank is clear, allowing oil into the cylinders. The other passage isn’t clear and doesn’t allow oil or air to pass through.

This lack of oil in the engine can cause rod knock, an obnoxious and loud noise heard during idling. Without oil in the cylinder, the engine knocking begins, and a terrible noise ensues. Once this sound begins, the vehilce needs repairs to save the engine from total failure.

Is engine failure a common problem with Kia and Hyundai engines?

Several owners have reported problems with the engines in their vehicles from these two brands. This problem isn’t part of the $3.1 billion class-action lawsuit, which mostly covers the ease at which models from 2010 to 2020 can be stolen. It is simply another issue that can arise with these cars.

One assembly line worker commented on the need for proper cleaning and debris removal tools on the line. This ensures these oil passage holes are clear during assembly. This is a common problem that can happen with a small amount of buildup, and the owner and some mechanics may never find the root cause of the problem.

If you’ve got a Kia or Hyundai with engine problems that your mechanic can’t diagnose, suggest a blocked oil passage in the crank. This could save your engine and allow your mechanic to complete the job.

Source: Daily Dot