Bang for the Buck. Repair or Replace the Engine? — Titan Auto & Tire

One Dollar Sign, Lots of Factors

At Titan Auto & Tire in Moseley, Virginia, we all drive vehicles, too. Therefore, we understand that your automobile is both a financial investment and an enhancement to your life (transportation to work, school, etc.). When it’s time for major work, you need to weigh your options so that you can make the best financial decision while still maintaining your standard of transportation. In slang terms, that’s known as assessing how much bang you get for your buck. Since there are multiple factors that contribute to the final cost, we’re glad to help you sort through the comparison. What’s more, we’re here to support you through the process regardless of whether you decide to repair or replace the engine.

Points to Consider

Unfortunately, a major engine overhaul (or any car repair for that matter) has an associated cost. As you determine the solution that’s best for you, keep a few things in mind. First, does your choice need to be based on the absolute lowest dollar value? If your budget is in a crunch, the least expensive options are rebuilding (or partially rebuilding) the existing engine or purchasing a used engine from a car with a damaged body. Keep in mind, however, that this short term gain could come with additional costs later. The only warranty on a rebuilt engine is on some of the specific parts. The engine as a whole has no warranty. Neither does a used engine from a salvage yard come with a warranty. Therefore, if you experience a subsequent breakdown, you may be incurring repairs costs again sooner than you planned.

If you can afford another solution, other options include a remanufactured engine or a crate engine. A remanufactured power plant has been refurbished/rebuilt already. It will include a written warranty, though typically not as long as the guarantee that comes with a new engine. A crate engine, so named because it arrives protected by a wooden structure, is a new, never used engine. Thus, it comes with a much longer warranty. Clearly, warranties help offset the costs of future repairs. Keep in mind, however, that an engine warranty is still not the same as the bumper-to-bumper warranty that comes with a new car. That’s because you’re only replacing the engine, not other components such as brakes, transmission, suspension parts, etc.

Help Implementing Your Decision

As you can see the cost of engine replacement includes factors beyond the actual dollars and cents. Your best decision hinges upon a balance of available funds, short term expenditures, and long term benefits. Once you’ve made your choice, count on Titan Auto & Tire for engine repair or replacement.