A seized engine can be a frustrating and costly problem for any vehicle owner. Whether it’s due to neglect, lack of maintenance, or extreme weather conditions, a seized engine can cause significant damage to the engine and lead to costly repairs. However, using the best penetrating oil for a seized engine can help alleviate this problem.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 10 best penetrating oils for seized engines, a comparison chart of the products, and how to unseized an engine. Additionally, we’ll discuss the best penetrating oil for seized diesel engines and the best ways to free a stuck engine. By following the information provided in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to select the best penetrating oil and methods to unseized your engine and prevent future engine seizures.
Table of Contents
What is the best penetrating oil for a seized engine?
There are many factors to consider when trying to determine the best penetrating oil for a seized engine. The severity of the seizure, the location of the seizure, and the type of engine all play a role in what kind of penetrating oil will work best.
If the seizure is severe, you may need to use a stronger penetrating oil. If the seizure is minor, you may be able to get away with using a weaker oil.
The location of the seizure is also important. If the seizure is in a hard-to-reach place, you may need oil with a longer nozzle.
The type of engine also matters. If you have a seized diesel engine, you’ll need a different kind of penetrating oil than if you have a seized gasoline engine. Top 10 Best Penetrating Oil For Seized Engine
Top 10 Best Penetrating Oil for Seized Engine

To help you choose the best penetrating oil for your seized engine, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 penetrating oils. We’ll also give you a few tips on how to use them.
1. WD-40 Specialist Penetrant
WD-40 is a well-known brand that produces a range of lubricants and penetrating oils. Their Specialist Penetrant is a popular choice for freeing up stuck parts and engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and corrosion inhibitors that help loosen rusted parts.
Pros:
- WD-40 Specialist Penetrant is fast-acting and penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula contains corrosion inhibitors that prevent future rust and corrosion.
Cons:
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
- The spray can leak if not stored properly.
2. Liquid Wrench Super penetrant
Liquid Wrench Super Penetrant is another popular penetrating oil that can help free up seized engines. It’s designed to penetrate deep into rust and corrosion to break down the bonds that are holding the parts together.
Pros:
- Liquid Wrench Super Penetrant is a fast-acting formula that penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula contains no silicone, making it safe for use in automotive applications.
Cons:
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
- The formula has a strong odor that may be unpleasant to some users.
3. CRC Heavy duty penetrant
CRC Heavy Duty Penetrant is a powerful formula that can help loosen stuck parts and engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and solvents that help penetrate deep into rust and corrosion to break down the bonds that are holding the parts together.
Pros:
- CRC Heavy Duty Penetrant is a fast-acting formula that penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula contains a high concentration of lubricants, making it ideal for heavily corroded parts.
Cons:
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
- The formula may leave a residue that needs to be cleaned up.
4. PB Blaster penetrant
PB Blaster Penetrant is a fast-acting formula that can help free up seized engines in just a few minutes. It contains a blend of lubricants and solvents that penetrate deep into rust and corrosion to break down the bonds that are holding the parts together.
Pros:
- PB Blaster Penetrant is a fast-acting formula that penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula is ideal for use on heavily corroded parts.
Cons:
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
- The formula has a strong odor that may be unpleasant to some users.
5. Kano Kroil penetrating oil
Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil is a high-quality formula that can help loosen even the most stubborn parts and engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and solvents that penetrate deep into rust and corrosion to break down the bonds that are holding the parts together.
Pros:
- Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil is a high-quality formula that penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula is ideal for use on heavily corroded parts.
Cons:
- Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil is one of the more expensive penetrating oils on the market.
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
6. Therma-Tek 3606 penetrant
Therma-Tek 3606 Penetrant is a unique formula that uses heat to help break down rust and corrosion. It’s designed to be used with a heat source, such as a torch or heat gun, to help loosen seized engines.
Pros:
- Therma-Tek 3606 Penetrant uses heat to help break down rust and corrosion, making it an effective solution for heavily corroded parts.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
Cons:
- The formula requires a heat source, which may not be accessible in all situations.
- The formula may leave a residue that needs to be cleaned up.
7. Marvel Mystery Oil
Marvel Mystery Oil is a multipurpose formula that can be used as a penetrating oil, lubricant, and fuel additive. It’s designed to help free up stuck parts and engines by penetrating deep into rust and corrosion.
Pros:
- Marvel Mystery Oil is a versatile formula that can be used as a penetrating oil, lubricant, and fuel additive.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula helps prevent future rust and corrosion.
Cons:
- Marvel Mystery Oil may not be as effective as other penetrating oils on heavily corroded parts.
- The formula may leave a residue that needs to be cleaned up.
8. WD-40 Multi-Use Product
WD-40 Multi-Use Product is a popular choice for a wide range of applications, including freeing up seized engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and corrosion inhibitors that help loosen rusted parts.
Pros:
- WD-40 Multi-Use Product is a versatile formula that can be used for a wide range of applications.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula helps prevent future rust and corrosion.
Cons:
- WD-40 Multi-Use Product may not be as effective as other penetrating oils on heavily corroded parts.
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
9. 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil
3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil is another versatile formula that can be used for a range of applications, including freeing up seized engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and corrosion inhibitors that help loosen rusted parts.
Pros:
- 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil is a versatile formula that can be used for a wide range of applications.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula helps prevent future rust and corrosion.
Cons:
- 3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil may not be as effective as other penetrating oils on heavily corroded parts.
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
10. Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant
Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant is a high-quality formula that can help free up seized engines. It contains a blend of lubricants and solvents that penetrate deep into rust and corrosion to break down the bonds that are holding the parts together.
Pros:
- Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant is a high-quality formula that penetrates deep into rust and corrosion.
- It’s safe to use on all metals and plastics.
- The formula helps prevent future rust and corrosion.
Cons:
- Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant may not be as effective as other penetrating oils on heavily corroded parts.
- The spray can is not suitable for use in tight spaces.
Comparison Chart
To help you compare the different penetrating oils, we’ve created a comparison chart that highlights their key features and benefits.
Penetrating Oil | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|---|
WD-40 Specialist Penetrant | Fast-acting formula, non-flammable, safe on all metals | Effectively penetrates rust and corrosion, with quick results | Expensive, spray can not suitable for tight spaces |
Liquid Wrench Super Penetrant | Powerful formula, safe on all metals | Penetrates deep into rust and corrosion, works quickly | Strong odor, may need multiple applications |
CRC Heavy Duty Penetrant | Long-lasting lubrication, safe on all metals | Penetrates quickly and effectively, long-lasting results | Strong odor, may need multiple applications |
PB Blaster Penetrant | Fast-acting formula, safe on all metals | Effectively penetrates rust and corrosion, with quick results | Strong odor, expensive |
Kano Kroil Penetrating Oil | Unique formula, safe on all metals | Penetrates deep into rust and corrosion, effective on heavily corroded parts | Expensive, spray can not suitable for tight spaces |
Therma-Tek 3606 Penetrant | Uses heat to break down rust and corrosion, safe on all metals | Effective on heavily corroded parts, safe to use | Requires a heat source, may leave a residue |
Marvel Mystery Oil | Multipurpose formula, safe on all metals | Versatile prevents future rust and corrosion | May not be as effective on heavily corroded parts, and may leave a residue |
WD-40 Multi-Use Product | Versatile formula, safe on all metals | Prevents future rust and corrosion, widely available | May not be as effective on heavily corroded parts, spray can not suitable for tight spaces |
3-IN-ONE Multi-Purpose Oil | Versatile formula, safe on all metals | Prevents future rust and corrosion, widely available | May not be as effective on heavily corroded parts, spray can not suitable for tight spaces |
Tri-Flow Superior Lubricant | High-quality formula, safe on all metals | Penetrates deep into rust and corrosion, prevents future rust and corrosion | May not be as effective on heavily corroded parts, spray can not suitable for tight spaces |
How to Unseize an Engine
Now that you have a better understanding of the top 10 best penetrating oils for seized engines, let’s discuss how to unseized an engine.
First, it’s important to identify the root cause of the seizure. Common causes include rust, corrosion, and lack of use. Once you have identified the cause, you can select the appropriate penetrating oil from our list and apply it to the affected parts.
To apply the penetrating oil, spray it directly onto the affected area and let it sit for several hours. If possible, use a heat source to help activate the formula and aid in the penetration process.
After the penetrating oil has had time to work, attempt to turn the engine over. If it still doesn’t budge, repeat the process several times until the parts start to loosen. If the engine still won’t turn over, it may be necessary to disassemble it and manually clean the affected parts.
To further enhance your knowledge on how to unseized an engine, check out our article on “How to Unseize an Engine Step by Step.” This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of unseizing an engine, providing detailed instructions and tips to help you get your engine running smoothly again. Don’t let a seized engine bring your project to a halt – read our article and learn how to fix the problem quickly and effectively.
Best Penetrating Oil for Seized Diesel Engine
While all of the penetrating oils on our list are safe for use on diesel engines, some may be more effective than others. When dealing with a seized diesel engine, it’s important to choose a penetrating oil that can handle the unique challenges presented by diesel engines.
Based on our research and customer feedback, the best penetrating oil for seized diesel engines is Liquid Wrench Super Penetrant. Its powerful formula penetrates deep into rust and corrosion, making it effective on even the most stubborn diesel engine parts.
Best Way to Free a Stuck Engine
In addition to using penetrating oil, there are other steps you can take to free a stuck engine. Here are some tips:
- Use a breaker bar or socket wrench to try and turn the crankshaft. Apply steady pressure and avoid using excessive force.
- Remove the spark plugs to relieve pressure in the cylinders.
- Add a small amount of engine oil or lubricant directly to the cylinders to help lubricate the affected parts.
- Use a rubber mallet to tap the affected parts gently. This can help loosen them up and aid in the penetration process.
- If all else fails, disassemble the engine and manually clean the affected parts.
By following these steps and using the right penetrating oil, you can effectively unseized a stuck engine and get it running smoothly again.
If you found these tips helpful, be sure to check out my other article “Best Way to Free a Stuck Engine” for more in-depth instructions and expert advice. Don’t let a stuck engine keep you from getting back on the road. With the right knowledge and tools, you can easily overcome this common problem. So, read the article and get your engine running again!
Conclusion
A seized engine can be a frustrating and costly problem, but with the right penetrating oil and a little bit of patience, you can often free up the affected parts and get your engine running again. The top 10 penetrating oils we’ve outlined here are all effective options for unseating a seized engine, and each has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks. By using our comparison chart and following our tips for freeing a stuck engine, you can choose the best penetrating oil for your needs and get your engine back in working order.
FAQs
What causes an engine to seize?
An engine can seize for a variety of reasons, including lack of lubrication, overheating, mechanical failure, and water damage.
Can I use any type of oil to unseized an engine?
No, not all oils are suitable for unseizing an engine. You should use a penetrating oil specifically designed for this purpose.
How long should I let the penetrating oil sit before attempting to turn the engine?
The amount of time needed will depend on the specific oil you are using. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended wait times.
What if the penetrating oil doesn’t work?
If the penetrating oil does not work, you may need to try other methods or disassemble the engine for a more thorough cleaning.
Can I prevent my engine from seizing in the future?
Regular maintenance and proper lubrication can help prevent an engine from seizing. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and use high-quality oils and lubricants.