When faced with major engine work what are my options?
What is a core?
What is the difference between a short block and a long block?
What are the typical symptoms of engine problems?
What are the typical causes of engine problems?
How do I find out what can be done to correct the problem?
What are the typical costs and savings?
What is involved in the process of remanufacturing/rebuilding an engine?
Are all remanufactured/rebuilt engines built to the same quality levels?
How important is the installation process?
How long will the replacement engine last?
What warranty period should I get?
When faced with major engine work what are my options?
- Trade the vehicle. Your trade-in (current vehicle) value is reduced because of the damaged engine. If trading for a used vehicle you could be purchasing one with "unknown and potentially costly" maintenance issues. New vehicles are expensive.
- Patch job. Depending on the type of engine damage you could consider fixing the specific problem but this is usually expensive and there are no guarantees that another engine related failure won't occur.
- Used/Junkyard engine. You could swap your engine for one that came out of another vehicle. The downside is that you don't know the history of the "used/junkyard" engine. Although "used/junkyard" engines may be warranted, the labor to replace one with potential problems can escalate the repair bill.
- Factory Remanufactured. These engines have been professionally rebuilt at a factory. Many internal parts have been replaced with new ones. These engines have been tested and come with a warranty that usually covers installation expenses.
- Custom Remanufactured. Here, your engine is removed and rebuilt. Like the factory version; many internal parts get replaced with new ones.
What is a core?
When replacing your engine with a factory remanufactured one the remanufacturer requires that you exchange your old (current) engine, referred to as a "core".
What is the difference between a short block and a long block?
Engines are two halves. The bottom half of an engine, which houses the crankshaft, pistons, etc., is commonly referred to as the short block. A long block includes the short block - or bottom half of the engine, plus the top half as well. The top, commonly referred to as the cylinder head/s, contains the valves and sometimes the camshaft.
What are the typical symptoms of engine problems?
Excessive smoke from tailpipe; excessive oil consumption; knocking or tapping sounds; low oil pressure; low compression; water mixing in oil; oil getting into the air cleaner and/or radiator.
What are the typical causes of engine problems?
Normal mileage wear and tear; poor maintenance; lubrication problems; excessive overheating.
How do I find out what can be done to correct the problem?
Take your vehicle to a reputable service shop, dealer or installation center for diagnosis. Not all engine problems call for engine replacement – often the problems are not serious and may only require relatively minor repair or maintenance. Click to view our Shop Finder.
What are the typical costs and savings?
Repowering a typical car or truck with a remanufactured/rebuilt engine costs between $2,250 to $4,000 or about 10% to 20% of the cost of a new vehicle. Additional savings in annual insurance costs can also be significant compared to that of a new vehicle.
Click to view our Cost Comparison page.
What is involved in the process of remanufacturing/rebuilding an engine?
Rebuilding refers to the process of reconditioning your existing engine to meet industry standard specifications.
Remanufacturing is the process of reconditioning a used or "core" engine to meet industry standard specifications.
Both processes, when conducted by expert technicians who follow industry standardized rebuilding practices; offer the best value solution when repowering your vehicle.
Are all remanufactured/rebuilt engines built to the same quality levels?
No. As with every product, even new, some manufacturers are better than others, and some are far more superior. Quality suppliers conform to strict manufacturing and testing standards, use quality components, and back their products with solid warranties. Click for a PDF of a checklist.
How important is the installation process?
Very important. For a good quality remanufactured/rebuilt engine, the chance of a defect is well under 5%. The risk of problems can increase to over 50%, however, with improper installation. Replacing an engine is a skillful and complex task requiring knowledgeable and experienced people. Be sure to check on the experience of the installer before replacing your engine
How long will the replacement engine last?
A remanufactured/rebuilt engine, with proper maintenance, is capable of lasting as long as a new engine.
What warranty period should I get?
Warranty terms and coverage vary. A typical warranty covers the remanufactured unit for a limited time and/or mileage. Some engine warranties provide labor coverage which would typically reimburse a professional installer a flat dollar amount for fixing or replacing a warranted engine. The big question is... What is covered and for how long? We recommend asking a specific question of each supplier that will lead to a general concept of what each warranty would cover.
Get a copy of the warranty documents; read and compare them carefully. Visit our warranty section for more information.
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