The engine is the heart of your vehicle. Without an engine that works properly, your vehicle is unable to transport you safely from one location to the next. Engine repairs can be costly, and the replacement of the engine itself can become very expensive. You can reduce your repair or replacement costs by opting to invest in a used engine instead of a new one.
Used engines are pulled from vehicles that sustained damage in a car accident. The vehicle may have been totaled as a result of the damage, but the engine remained intact. These used engines still have a lot of life left in them. It's important that you select the right used engine to ensure your vehicle continues running efficiently once the replacement is complete.
1. Ask for the Service History
The easiest way to guarantee that you are getting a quality used engine is to ensure that the previous owner provided regular maintenance over the life of the engine. You can determine the level of care provided by asking to see the engine's service history.
The seller should be able to provide you with documentation regarding oil changes and any previous repairs made to the engine before it was removed from its original vehicle and offered for sale. Avoid any engine that doesn't have a service history if you want to avoid potential performance problems once your used engine is installed.
2. Determine the Type of Engine Needed
Not all engines are created the same. It's important that you invest in a used engine that matches the specifications of your vehicle's factory-installed engine if you want to maximize the performance of your car in the future.
Check the number of cylinders and the amount of horsepower generated by the used engine to find the right model for your vehicle.
3. Know if You Need a Long or Short Block
Another critical piece of information you will need when investing in a used engine is whether you need to purchase a long block engine or a short block engine.
A long block engine comes equipped with all necessary components to replace your old engine in full. A short block engine is designed to replace certain parts of the engine while leaving other components intact.
Short block engines will be cheaper, so they are a better option if your engine damage is minimal. Your mechanic will be able to advise you when it comes to weighing the benefits of a long and short block replacement engine for your vehicle. Contact a company like Fresno Auto & Truck Recycling for more help.