Explosion and loud noise under hood

[K-dog]

Today I drove my 2000 Subaru Outback in hot weather with the A/C on for
about 15 minutes. I got back home and pulled into my driveway. I
stopped the engine and within a minute, restarted so I could pull the
car forward. As I started, I heard a small explosion under my hood and
saw a bit of smoke coming out the sides. My engine then started
sounding like a truck/tractor. I looked under the hood and I dont see
any loose belts, hoses etc. Also, today is Sunday and I cant get it to
a mechanic. I tried starting the car after things cooled down a bit
and it still sounds the same. As I give it gas, the engine
rattling/awful noise just seems to get louder.


Any ideas on what happened?

 

[John Rethorst]

Today I drove my 2000 Subaru Outback in hot weather with the A/C on for
about 15 minutes. I got back home and pulled into my driveway. I
stopped the engine and within a minute, restarted so I could pull the
car forward. As I started, I heard a small explosion under my hood and
saw a bit of smoke coming out the sides. My engine then started
sounding like a truck/tractor. I looked under the hood and I dont see
any loose belts, hoses etc. Also, today is Sunday and I cant get it to
a mechanic. I tried starting the car after things cooled down a bit
and it still sounds the same. As I give it gas, the engine
rattling/awful noise just seems to get louder.

Any ideas on what happened?

I don't, but I'd have it towed. I wouldn't start the engine again.

 

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

doesn't sound good. How many miles? has it had the timing belt changed
appropriately?
don't start it again - get it towed (flatbed please!)

Carl

 

[JJ]

Today I drove my 2000 Subaru Outback in hot weather with the A/C on for
about 15 minutes. I got back home and pulled into my driveway. I
stopped the engine and within a minute, restarted so I could pull the
car forward. As I started, I heard a small explosion under my hood and
saw a bit of smoke coming out the sides. My engine then started
sounding like a truck/tractor. I looked under the hood and I dont see
any loose belts, hoses etc. Also, today is Sunday and I cant get it to
a mechanic. I tried starting the car after things cooled down a bit
and it still sounds the same. As I give it gas, the engine
rattling/awful noise just seems to get louder.


Any ideas on what happened?

Water pump or oil pump failed. Don't start it again. Tow it to your
Subaru dealer & pray the engine hasn't seized.

 

[zonie]

Sounds to me like a backfire for some unknown reason. Most likely blew
something in the exhuast system . My guess is no harm to engine. But i
would have it towed to the shop. Please let us know what they find out.
Scott

 

[K-dog]

I called in a tow truck and then did a final check under my hood. I was
surprised that I didnt notice a blown out spark plug. My awesome Subaru
mechanic (check with me if you're in the sacramento area) helicoiled it
and it was fixed for $35 (+ labor). Also, there was a small leak in my
water pump which might have been the cause. Its all taken care of and
my soobie is back!

Zonie: Thanks for the positive tone. I'm glad my engine was fine.