Question

What is an engine lifter?

An engine lifter is a small but critical component of an internal combustion engine’s valvetrain.

The primary function of the engine lifter is to transfer motion from the camshaft to the engine’s valves, allowing them to open and close at the correct time.

A strong spring keeps the piston steady inside the lifter, which helps the valves operate smoothly as the camshaft turns. The camshaft lobe exerts a force on the lifter as the camshaft turns.

The lifter transfers this motion to your car’s engine valves, opening and closing the valves. Engine oil is supplied to the hydraulic lifters through special passageways. This oil helps prevent the lifter from compressing, allowing the complete transfer of the camshaft movement.

Is it okay to drive with bad engine lifters?

Even though it is possible to drive your car with faulty engine lifters, it is not recommended to do so. Driving can cause greater damage and cost much more than replacing lifters. Related damages can include cracked cylinder heads, blown head gaskets, and many others.