Glossary / General

interference engine

12 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

In an interference engine, if the timing belt breaks, pistons can hit valves and damage the engine. Non‑interference engines are safer in this regard.

Technical Definition

An interference engine is one where the pistons and valves occupy the same space at different times; a broken timing belt can cause piston‑valve collision and severe engine damage.

Hear It Discussed

"and that's an interference. I was going to ask interference. I bent the valve"
One Make, One Decade with Maurice Merrick of Horsepower Heritage Bring a Trailer Podcast 09:25

"...issue with a lot of whatever car, right? Like for example, a car with an interference engine is going to require time and belt change."
Radwood Recap - What To Look Out For When Buying & Selling A Car Sight Unseen Analog and Grit Podcast 30:36

"Timing belt were to fail and it's an interference engine. Which means that upon that belt coming apart or coming off the Develves and the pistons can collide which creates permanent damage to the..."
Changing and Filling Fluids, Oil Change Frequency, Airflow Issues WCCO's Car Care 19:29