Q: Engine seized...rods shot out both sides of engine block.

asked by on August 25, 2016

I need to have a question answered regarding a Toyota Tundra Engine (2003 Tundra with V6 3.4L at 111000 miles) and the possible issues that could arise with running it without an air filter. Is it possible for this engine to eventually (within about a four month time period) throw two rods (one on each side of the engine block) from driving the vehicle without an air filter to the point that the Mass Air Flow Sensor failed due to being clogged with debris. Long story short is that a lube shop left out my air filter and I drove it for over 3000 miles sucking in unprotected air. It wasn't discovered until after my truck died from contamination from floating cotton wood debris that clogged the MAF sensor. 2000 miles later the truck throws a rod.

My car has 111000 miles.
My car has a manual transmission.

Air Filter Replacement $104.43 - $174.79 Get a Quote
Mass Airflow Sensor Replacement $188.36 - $786.53 Get a Quote

Hello. To answer your question, yes, the lack of an air filter can cause catastrophic engine damage. Over time, the debris will build up inside of the engine as it mixes with air and other carbon contaminates. Eventually, it will build up so much debris that damage will occur (including damage to the mass air flow sensor). In most cases, the debris will get caught in the valves which will hold them open and can cause a series of running issues as well as the piston hitting the valve. It can also cause enough build up in the cylinder that the piston seizes up, which will cause the engine to throw the rod. There are plenty of reasons for why this would happen. I hope this helps.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

How do I adjust the height of the upper part of the seat belt?
The two front seats closest to the doors have adjustable shoulder belt height. The upper spot where the seat belt attaches to the vehicle can be moved up or down to adjust the height of the shoulder belt (upper part...
Loud rattling coming from bottom of car
Hi. This should be inspected soon as damage to the underside of the car can be costly. There are metal and rubber mounts that hold up the exhaust system which over time can become loose. This could also cause damage...
Car idling roughly and jerking, check engine light came on
Quite a few items can cause a misfire condition in your vehicle. Usually worn spark plugs are the most common cause, so they are usually replaced first before diagnosis can proceed any further. Since yours have been replaced as well...
Car is starving for fuel sometimes but not always
Hi. The first question to ask is if the Check Engine Light is on. If so, what are the stored problem codes? These would be helpful for diagnostic purposes. Check your fuel pressure (while running and under load if possible)....
No heat - 2000 Dodge Dakota
Hello there, many common faults will cause your 2000 Dodge Dakota to not have heat. If you have no heat coming from the vents, it is likely you have a air conditioning blend door actuator fault or a faulty AC...
Engine doesn't wanna warm up
You should have the vehicle checked to see if the engine is not running hot enough or the coolant sensor is not reading the correct temperature causing an incorrect gauge reading from the engine actual temperature. If you have already...
Reduce engine lite is on does slow the vechile down . comes on &off .i cleaned the intake throttle. It s weird i fell the rpm go
The cause of the reduced power is not likely to be the battery. In any case, the battery is easy to test (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/battery-is-dead-inspection) and rule out. The issue you are writing in about is common enough that a specific diagnostic,...

Related articles

The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Live in a Rainy Area
When When considering purchasing a used car, you have a lot of decisions to make. You need to consider price, size, gas mileage, how much cargo space you need, and of course the appearance of the car as well. And...
How Long Does a Camshaft Position Sensor Last?
Most Most people get in their car and crank it without ever thinking about what it takes to make this process happen. A variety of different sensors and ignition parts will have to work in conjunction in order for a...
Top Five Selling Cars in Colorado in 2012
Colorado Colorado offers a varied climate depending on where drivers are located. Those in lower elevations see plenty of sunshine all year, while those in the mountain areas can see as much as 300 inches of snow. Due to this,...