A flooded engine occurs when an excessive amount of fuel enters the cylinders, preventing the spark plugs from igniting the air-fuel mixture. This often manifests as the engine failing to start, despite repeated attempts. An illustrative scenario involves multiple unsuccessful ignition attempts after accidentally pumping the accelerator excessively before or during starting.
Addressing this issue promptly is crucial for maintaining vehicle operability and preventing potential damage to engine components. Ignoring the problem could lead to fuel dilution of the engine oil, potentially reducing its lubricating properties and accelerating wear. Historically, mechanical carburetors were more susceptible to flooding; however, modern fuel-injected systems can still experience this problem, often due to sensor malfunctions or prolonged cranking.