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Benefits of Car Engine Replacement

There are several benefits to going with a car engine replacement when your car’s engine is gone, especially if the current car is paid off! But sometimes, it can be a choice you have to make: Go with a car engine replacement or buy a new car. 

And while neither of these options is cheap, let’s take a look at the benefits of going with a car engine replacement: 

• CAR PAYMENT

If your car is paid for, a car engine replacement will keep you from having to budget car payments, again. You may have to make payments on the engine replacement, but they won’t be close to what new car payments are, and you’ll pay it off sooner. 

• AUTO INSURANCE PREMIUMS 

When you’re making payments on a car, the insurance premiums are higher than for a paid-in-full car.  With a car engine replacement, full coverage isn’t required, so your insurance premiums aren’t affected.

• WARRANTY 

Yes, you’ll have a full warranty with a new car, but you’ll also have a warranty with a car engine replacement too. It may not be from front to rear and everything in between, including the drivetrain, but most car engine replacements come with a warranty of 3 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. 

• LESS TIME, LESS WASTE

For a mechanic, installing a car engine replacement can usually be completed in under a week, if parts are readily available. From the environmental perspective, there is less energy used to install a car engine replacement than re-building the existing engine. 

What is the average cost to replace a car engine?

There are several factors that will determine the cost of a car engine replacement. In addition to the make, model, and year of the car, there is the size and type of engine to be replaced. Engines come in various sizes, 4-cylinder, 6-cylinder, and V-8 are the most common types of engine. 

Every make, model, and year can take any of these engines, and even some other less common engines.  You can be sure though, a car engine replacement could cost upward of $1,000 or more, depending on your mechanic’s rates and if they can reuse any of the parts from the current engine. Those parts that could be reused would be the belt, starter, radiator, fan, etc. 

What are some common signs that a car engine needs to be replaced?

Here are eight indications that your car engine is on its way to needing a car engine replacement: 

Check Engine Light Illuminated

When this light illuminates, it tells you something is wrong with the engine. Your mechanic will run a code check and can determine the exact problem and from there, they can advise you if repairs are possible or recommend a car engine replacement. 

Power Loss

 Gas-powered cars have an internal combustion engine with a 4-stroke combustion cycle that converts the gasoline into power the engine needs for the car to move. If your car has a loss of power, this usually indicates you’re out of gas or there is an interruption in the 4-stroke combustion process. 

Gas Mileage Decreases

There can be a number of things that cost the gas mileage to decrease, but if you’re having to fill the tank up every day, it is likely something is wrong with the internal compression stroke. You can add a fuel cleaner that will help it, but if it doesn’t, your mechanic can run a diagnostic test that will help determine the problem. 

Noises and Sounds

Car engines should not be backfiring, hissing, knocking, popping, or sputtering. When you start hearing odd noises and sounds, take your car to a mechanic and have them run diagnostic testing. They will be able to advise if repairs are possible or if you need a car engine replacement. 

Other indications that it is time for a car engine replacement include the engine constantly stalling, odd smells coming from under the hood, or when you kill the engine, it keeps running. Even a rough-running engine could indicate the engine is done, but your mechanic can advise this once they have inspected the car engine and run diagnostics. 

In Closing: Is car engine replacement worthwhile? 

The information we have shared here proves that it is a personal decision based on what your mechanic advises you. Your mechanic should do a full inspection of the engine and run diagnostics, then take all that information acquired and advise you if a car engine replacement is the best choice for you.

American Engine Installations offers professional car engine replacement in Marietta and Atlanta, GA. Contact us at (404) 920-4252 to learn more. 

How Experienced Should A Mechanic Be to Install Used Engines? 

An engine installation takes a lot of know-how and practical application. In other words, the more actual hands-on experience the better! Most mechanic shops will require their staff mechanics to have one of the following:

• 1 ASE certification
• Master ASE Technician

Many shops will hire a mechanic without either of these if they have one to two years in engine building and mechanical work that can be verified. Somebody with ‘shade-tree’ experience can often know more than a mechanic with 1-year work as a Master ASE Technician.

How Much Does Installation Cost for Used Engines? 

Every mechanic shop will have a different cost. This is based on the type of used engines and the car in which the engine is being installed. There are assorted components and parts that vary from car to car and engine to engine, including bolts, gaskets, and more.

What Checks Are Done to Ensure the Condition of Used Engines? 

Either your mechanic or their source of used engines will look at the following: 

• Visual Inspection
  The mechanic will check for obvious oil leaks, in particular around the crankshaft and the back of the oil pan. This is done by removing the breather, oil cap, and PCV valve hose while the engine is running. They are looking for a large amount of blow-by. 

• Dipstick
  The mechanic will use the dipstick to check the oil level. They want to see clean oil because this indicates the engine has been well-maintained. If they see rust or white foamy goo on the dipstick, this can indicate coolant has leaked into the oil  (the white foamy goo) or water has leaked into the oil (rust). If the oil drain pan is drastically over-full, it is most likely water. By removing the oil drain plug, if water comes out, for sure, there is water in the oil. 

• Sounds
  With the engine running, the mechanic will listen for any odd sounds, especially listening for heavy sounds like hard metallic rapping from the bottom of used engines, indicating a problem with the internal bearings. A higher pitch ticking sound is an indication of problems with the cam and/or lifters. 

• Oil Pressure
  With the engine running, the mechanic will check the operating temperature. They like to see it at 20 psi while idling and 40 psi or more as the engine is revved. 

• Compression 

The mechanic will remove all the plugs and block the throttle wide open, and with the ignition disabled, they will crank the engine several times. The compression should rank at over 100 psi, typically in a range between 140 and 160. 

• Vacuum Test
  To test the condition of used engines, the mechanic will use a vacuum gauge, the stock cam readings are good when between 17 inches and 22 inches of mercury. A lower reading, a  fluctuating reading, or if the gauge needle vibrates, there are internal issues with the engine. 

Other things a mechanic should check with used engines are leak-down testing, checking the timing chain, cylinder balance testing, and a radiator pressure check. 

How Long Will It Take to Install the Used Engine? 

In most cases, a mechanic can complete installing used engines within a week. This can vary based on any issues with the engine, including needing any additional parts to complete the installation. 

Before You Get Your Motor Running

Yes, there will be additional parts needed when installing used engines. What additional parts are needed to install used engines?  Parts that aren’t included with used engines include gaskets and seals, spark plugs and wire, the thermostat, and the water pump. 

Be certain to get your warranty in writing, detailing what components and parts are included in the warranty. The additional parts like the thermostat and water pump will likely have their own warranty separate from the used engines they are installed with. 

At American Engine Installations, we would be happy to provide a consultation for your engine installation in Marietta and Atlanta, GA. Just give us a call today and give us a review of your automobile needs.

How do you remanufacture an engine?

A remanufactured engine is like having a new engine built. There are standard procedures with quality control and factory testing performed before the remanufactured engine is released. The mechanic team will start with an engine core that is undamaged and proceed with the following steps:

• Thoroughly and carefully clean the engine 
• Measure the engine to assure it is at OEM specifications
• Replace all damaged or worn components with new parts, including:

• Pistons
• Rings
• Valves
• Lifters

Does remanufacturing an engine reset the mileage?

An engine swap, engine replacement, or remanufactured engine will not reset the mileage on your vehicle. The mileage calculates all the components of a car.  It is illegal to reset the mileage on an odometer because it should always reflect the age of the entire car accurately. 

Is a remanufactured engine the same as a new engine?

A properly done remanufactured engine by a reputable mechanic or garage should be as good, in some cases, better than a new engine. A reputable mechanic or garage will typically offer a 1-year warranty on the work done when driven properly. 

This means, that if you decide to take the car down a quarter-mile track to race and blow the engine, the warranty is null and void. For the cost factor, a remanufactured engine is less expensive than a rebuilt engine. 

Often a remanufactured engine is built from parts that are sourced from other engines that have broken down and have been “reworked”. They are then thoroughly inspected before being installed on an engine that is being remanufactured. 

How long will a remanufactured engine last?

The typical warranty on a remanufactured engine is 1-year or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. Specialty remanufactured engines will come with a 36-month warranty and unlimited miles.

Is remanufactured the same as refurbished?

No, there are differences, and it is important to realize those differences so you get what you pay for.  The general description of a remanufactured engine is: 

The mechanic or technician working on the remanufacturing will check the mechanical tolerances and restore them with either re-machined components or installing the needed inserts to restore the engine to the original manufacturer’s mechanical tolerances so that the engine meets the standard OEM durability, quality, and tolerances. Those parts include: 

• New pistons
• Connecting rods
• Rings
• Bearings
• Camshafts
• Lifters
• Oil pump 

All bearing surfaces are restored and the engine’s upper half, including the cylinder heads, are rebuilt. The only part that remains the same with a remanufactured engine is the block if it is in a rebuildable condition.

A rebuilt engine is cleaned and inspected, and any broken, damaged, or worn parts are replaced. Any parts that are still serviceable are reused if they are within the manufacturer’s suggested acceptable wear limits. The rebuilt components’ quality can vary between engine and engine parts rebuilders and will typically have a limited warranty.

Before an engine rebuild begins, the components are typically equally worn condition. After an engine rebuild, some of the components will be new and others will be the used ones that were on the engine. It is important to understand that the used components, should function properly even if they are somewhat worn. 

Are refurbished engines good?

Experienced car buffs will say that a rebuilt engine is often better than the original factory-installed engine. They are a reliable and more cost-effective choice when needing engine repair or replacement. 

Is a remanufactured engine better than a used engine?

Yes, it has been refurbed with new or qualified used parts and components. A used engine is used. You get all the mileage previous owners have put on the engine. 

So, if your mechanic tells you that you’ve “blown your head gasket”, you’re not going anywhere until you schedule head gasket repair, which usually requires replacing it. Okay, so it is important to the car engine, but what is it?

Not only does the head gasket seals the combustion chamber, but it also allows the engine to produce the power needed for the car to move. The head gasket also keeps the harmful gases a car forms from exiting the combustion chamber, routing them through the exhaust. 

Does a blown head gasket mean you need a new engine?

It depends on how much damage the blown head gasket caused, i.e., how much did you drive it without getting a head gasket repair job? If your mechanic advises you that any of the following have occurred, then the engine is beyond any head gasket repair. The following are things that can happen when the head gasket is blown, and the answer to “Can Head Gaskets be repaired?” is stated with each of these examples:  

Damaged Cylinder Head 

A damaged cylinder head is visible with cracks, tunneling, or warping. A cracked cylinder head is usually nothing more than a boat anchor. A cylinder head with tunneling may be repairable, but more often it is not. And a warped cylinder has a chance of the mechanic being able to repair it if is not too severely warped. In short form, a damaged cylinder head will require a new engine.

Damaged Engine Block 

A blown head gasket repair probably won’t be possible if the engine block is damaged, but it takes a bit more damage than the cylinder because of the materials used in making engine blocks. It will depend on how much of the surface area of the engine block is damaged in determining if the head gasket repair is possible. 

Damaged Bearing 

When the head gasket blows, excessive heat is generated inside the engine, and that causes damage to the bearing. If you check the oil and it is like chocolate milk or watery oil, then the bearings could be beyond repair, which could make a head gasket repair improbable. 

How much does it cost to repair a head gasket?

A head gasket repair job can range between $1,000 and $2,000 or more. It isn’t a matter of the gasket cost, but the work it takes to get to the gasket. When the mechanic tells you that a head gasket repair is possible, it isn’t a matter or installing a new gasket. 

The engine may have to be removed or the top half of the engine removed. There are several components attached to the engine that must be disconnected or removed to get to the gasket. The old gasket is removed and thrown away, scraping any residue is required before placing a new gasket. 

Is it better to repair a head gasket or replace the engine?

If none of the other extending areas we mentioned are damaged, a head gasket replacement job is the better choice financially. While it cost upward of $2,000, buying a whole new engine is much more expensive. 

Can you drive with a blown head gasket?

If you have a leaking head gasket, it is better not to drive the car any further than to the mechanic. Depending on how bad and where it is leaking will determine how far you can drive the car. You may not get out of the driveway, or you may be able to drive it for months before being forced to get a head gasket repair job. It’s a luck of the draw! 

On one hand, we hear “Cars are made better than they ever were.” On the other hand, we hear “They just don’t make them like they used to.” Typically, those statements are referring to the engine, and no, they don’t make them like they used to, and because they are made different, in many ways, that makes them better. 

Cars from the 1930s and up until the past 10 years did not have a computer chip that told you when the tires needed air. While not all cars have that feature, it has become a welcome new technology many of us appreciate, especially since gas stations are all self-serve and nobody comes out to check the air in your tires or the oil in the engine. This brings us the need decision if having a car engine replacement vs new car is the better option. 

Before you get to that point though, when do you know you have a problem? What are some signs of engine problems? A car engine is complicated and requires consistent and regular maintenance and upkeep to get the most power and longest life possible. The following are eight indications that you may need to be considering a car engine replacement: 

Check Engine Light: When this light is illuminated, it is the car’s way of telling you there is a problem with the engine or a component that works with the engine. Have a professional mechanic inspect the engine and run a diagnostic test that will read the sensor. This will narrow down, even pinpoint the problem.   

Power Loss: A gas-powered vehicle has an internal combustion engine. There is a four-stroke combustion cycle that converts the gas into power that makes the car move. When a car loses all its power, it can be an interruption within those four strokes of the combustion process. Good chance the engine is gone at this point, but a mechanic can better ascertain this situation and advise you if a car engine replacement is necessary. 

Gas Mileage Decrease: There are several factors that can affect your gas mileage. From worn-out tires to bad spark plugs. However, if all these things are in good order and a tank of gas isn’t getting you as far as it should, have your mechanic run an engine diagnostic test. This will pinpoint the problem and hopefully, a quick adjustment or repair is all you need, not a car engine replacement. 

Noises: A car engine that is backfiring, hissing, knocking, popping, and spitting is in distress. Some noises are completely normal, but there is a level of abnormality that indicates a problem with the combustion flow. You need your car examined by a mechanic, sooner than later. 

Stalled Engine: A car with a manual transmission will stall from time to time depending on the speed between the clutch pedal and gas pedal. While this can be frustrating, in most cases, it is normal. A car with an automatic transmission, however, shouldn’t stall. So, if your car has an automatic transmission and is stalling, aka dying, then your car needs to be inspected by a mechanic. It could be something minor or you may need a car engine replacement. 

Odors and Smells:  Car exhaust will have some odor, but it the odor is powerful and obnoxious, it needs to be checked by a mechanic.  

Engine Doesn’t Turn Off: This is a common problem with cars that have a high-performance engine, typically because the octane isn’t right for the engine. It can also be a problem with the carburetor or solenoid.  A mechanic can check your car out and determine the problem. 

Rough Running: A car engine that is idling or running rough may need a basic tune-up, replace the sparkplugs, or bad gas. If none of these things fixes the problem, have a mechanic check the engine. 

How long will a car last with a new engine?

As we said at the start of this article, like anything, there are several factors that will determine the lifespan of a new engine too. The quality of the new engine, the quality of the installation, your maintenance and upkeep routine, i.e., oil changes, filter changes, etc.  And your driving style and the conditions you drive the car will impact the lifespan of a new engine. 

The rule of thumb is you should get as long of a lifespan with the new engine as you did with the original engine.  If the original engine lasted 200,000 miles, a car engine replacement should last 200,000 miles. 

How much will it cost to replace my engine?

The make of the engine will be a determining factor, but for basic pricing guidelines, a new 4-cylinder engine is around $5,000, a V6 engine is around $6,000, and a V8 engine is around $8,000. These are basic engine estimate and doesn’t include any labor or upgrades. 

What is included in an engine replacement?

A new engine replacement is referred to as a “crate engine”, meaning it comes from the manufacturer in a crate. Included in this crate engine are the following components: 

• Engine block
• Crankshaft
• Cylinder heads
• Camshaft
• Pistons
• Valves

There are additional things needed like fuel filter, oil filter and oil, hoses, lines, wire, and clamps, along with bolts and nuts.  A car engine replacement is basically heart surgery for a car. 

Is it cheaper to rebuild an engine or replace it?

A car engine rebuild will be cheaper in most cases than buying a new engine, as much as half as much! However, there are times when an engine is so worn that a car engine replacement is the better solution. 

When should your engine be repaired?

You can look at a car engine replacement or repair like a new HVAC system, refrigerator, or other household appliance.  At 10 years old, new is the better option for longevity.  However, you may not be in a place where buying a new car is feasible, and in that case, pay the money for repairs until you can afford a car payment.

Yes, there are three key car engine parts, with many more parts that make those parts work. The three key car engine parts are: 

1. The cylinder head: This where the fuel goes into the engine chamber and exhaust gas exits. Within this key car engine parts are more key components like the camshafts, valves, and spark plugs.

2. The engine block: This is where all the combustion action happens with other key car engine parts like the combustion chamber, crankshaft, and pistons.

3. The oil pump: This is within the lower section of the car engine parts and where the oil filter and pan are located. 

What are the parts of a car engine and how do I identify engine parts?

Within the engine block, there are more car engine parts, and that is what we are going to discuss here. With the list we’re going provide, you should be able to identify the car engine parts: 

Engine Block

The main car engine part is the engine block itself. This is the key part of the entire engine and may be aluminum or iron. The engine block has different holes where the cylinders are located for oil and water to flow to cool and lubricate the engine block. 

Within the engine block, the camshaft, crankshaft, and pistons are located with 4 to 12 cylinders. Depending on the make and model of the car, the cylinders are inline, flat, or V-shaped. All other car engine parts are bolted to this and inside the car engine block is where the action is going on.

Piston

A piston is a disk like piece that is enclosed in a cylinder and the piston rings make it gas-tight. The disk moves up and down inside the cylinder with the gas as the cylinder contracts and expands. The piston helps the heat energy transform into mechanical work by moving up and down when the spark plugs fire them, making them compress the air and fuel mixture.

This reciprocating energy is then converted to rotary motion, transferring the tires by the transmission as powered by driveshaft. The pistons are a car engine part that rotates 1250 rpm up and down 2500 a minute. Piston rings are inside the piston and generate compression while reducing friction with the cylinder’s constant rubbing. 

Cylinder Head

The cylinder head is located above the cylinders on top of the engine block and closes the cylinder. This forms the combustion chamber, and a head gasket seals this joint to keep the gasses contained.

There are several interior car engine parts inside the cylinder head, including: 

• Valve springs
• Valves
• Lifters
• Pushrods
• Rocker arms

The camshafts inside the cylinder head control passages, allowing intake air to flow in the cylinders as they stroke up and down, then the exhaust passes during the exhaust stroke. 

Crankshaft

This is a moving car engine part that transforms the linear motion of the piston into rotating motion. The pistons are connected with piston rods and the crankshaft is mounted inside the engine block at the bottom. 

Within the crankshaft, are connected to the pistons with piston rods, operating like a jack-in-the-box. The crankshaft turns the pistons, moving them up and down into a reciprocal motion with the engine speed, converting the energy into rotation.

Camshaft

The camshaft is a metal rotating car engine part object that contains pointed cams. Those cams convert rotational motion to reciprocal motion and operate the intake and exhaust valves by mechanically controlling the ignition systems and early versions of electric motor speed controllers.

Each make and model of a vehicle will have a different type of camshaft, some are found inside the car engine block or inside the cylinder heads. Many vehicles made today, the camshaft is inside the cylinder heads and are referred to as DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) or SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft). 

The camshaft’s purpose is to regulate the valved opening and closing timing and transfer the rotary motion from the crankshaft to a motion of up and down with the lifters, so the pushrods, rockers, and valves move. 

Timing Belt or Chain

The timing belt or chain, an essential car engine part that synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft rotation, allowing the engine’s valves to open and close with cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes. This is one of the many car engine parts that is critical in preventing the piston from hitting the valves. 

Engine Valves

The engine valves are one of the mechanical car engine parts components that regulate the air, exhaust gas flow, and the fuel, as the engine operates. This function happens as the valves are pushed by the cam into the cylinder against the spring. This opens the valve, allowing gas to flow, and then the valve shuts and the pressure within the combustion chamber stays sealed.

Oil Pan

The oil pan is another one of the vital car engine parts that keeps the lubrication within the engine. Motor oil circulates through the engine to reduce friction and keep everything working smoothly. The oil pan keeps the motor oil contained and is made of metal, attaching to metal with a gasket. 

The list of car engine parts include the combustion chamber located inside the cylinder, the intake manifold that distributes airflow within the engine, the exhaust manifold that is usually a cast iron or stainless steel and carries the exhaust gas. 

Additional car engine parts include the intake and exhaust valves, spark plugs, connecting rod, piston rings, gudgeon pin, cam, and flywheel. A crankcase, flywheel, and several gaskets are needed for connecting many of the car engine parts to the engine or other car engine parts. 

Can you paint engine parts?

Yes, once you have cleaned them of any corrosion, dirt, dust, and rust. For most car enthusiasts that paint the engine, it is on an engine stand. If not, mask off any areas or parts that you don’t want painted with painter tape. Small parts can be painted by laying them on cardboard and paint separately, using cinder blogs or wood to raise them up and paint the underside. Always use enamel paint made for high heat. 

How do you remove corrosion from aluminum engine parts?

Aluminum is a type of metal, and this element will have many changes over its lifetime as part of an engine. It is popular in the auto industry because it is lightweight and bends easily. It also is ideal for conducting electricity and heat. 

Most corrosion on aluminum car engine parts can be removed by mixing distilled water with white vinegar. Gently agitate the corrosion with a mild scrub pad and for stubborn areas, a wire brush may be needed, using caution not to “get into” the aluminum. 

How do you remove rust from engine parts?

This will depend on the part itself. Many car engine parts are made of strong metal; you can use a Brillo pad or steel wool for cleaning. Some parts you may be able to remove and use a grinder to remove the rust and for other parts, you may need to place them in a chemical bath or use electrolysis to remove rust. However, putting them in a dishwasher is not recommended – more care is needed than that.

What can I use to clean engine parts?

After covering all electrical car engine parts, you can use an OTC degreaser available at any auto parts store, the same places where you can buy small engine parts. You can also use a basic household dish detergent. Spray the entire engine compartment with either one, completely and thoroughly then rinse with clear water. Some auto car wash stations offer a degreaser that can be used as well. You should make sure you have a back-up ride to get home in case something electrical gets wet. 

What parts should you cover when washing an engine?

The car engine parts that should be covered include any electrical components that can be sensitive to water. Those parts include: 

• The battery
• The spark plug and spark plug wires
• The Engine control unit

You can use plastic bags to cover these electrical components, holding the plastic in place with masking tape. If your car has an exposed air intake , this should be covered with plastic too. 

What is a refurbished engine? 

And what is replaced when rebuilding an engine? A refurbished engine refers to when the mechanic determines what engine part(s) is having a problem and replaces just those parts. The overall general wear and tear of the engine aren’t taken into consideration with a refurbished engine. Therefore, the mechanic doesn’t take the entire engine apart, nor do they clean it or completely inspect the engine. 

For an easy and fast way to get your car back on the road after having mechanical problems, getting a refurbished engine job is the way to go. However, that is only going to address any immediate problems you’re having. If there are underlying issues that haven’t surfaced yet, you could find yourself back at the garage. 

What does rebuilding an engine do?

Probably more than you realize! A rebuilt engine will have improved gas mileage with fewer pollutants emitted. Energy is saved by rebuilding an engine because there is less going to the landfill. Once the rebuilt is completed, with proper routine maintenance, the engine will last as long as an engine in a brand new car. 

Think of the money you’ll be saving with a rebuilt engine too! Your other options include a new car – with car payments and higher insurance. That’s something that can definitely cost a pretty penny. 

Does rebuilding an engine make it like new?

And are rebuilt engines reliable? In fact, a rebuilt engine is often a superior engine compared to what is in cars today. There are better parts available, and not just what the manufacturer’s factory issues. An engine rebuild is often done after some parts on new cars have proven to be faulty. The new replacement parts have gone through design changes to make them more dependable and reliable than the original engine parts.

Does rebuilding an engine reset the mileage?

No, it does not. The mileage on a car’s odometer is for the total miles on the entire car, every component, from top to bottom, inside and out. In fact, it is illegal to reset a car’s odometer. Why? What’s so important about the mileage on the other components? 

The mileage readout tells the full story about your car and the hundreds of components inside it. Yes, the engine is the main component, and it is the most expensive component. However, each component has a number of miles it is good for, and any buyer of the car should know the truth of the age and mileage on each component. 

So, what are all these important components? There are electrical and mechanical components, some needing maintenance and replacement over time, which will give them a new beginning. If the mileage were changed on the odometer because of a new engine, these parts could miss getting the attention they need at critical mileage points. Those important components are:

• Brakes
• Differentials
• Steering
• Suspension
• Transmission

Work that needs to be done at different points in a car’s mileage would include your oil and filter change, the brake fluid flush, transmission flush, and similar jobs. 

How much does a refurbished engine cost?

Pricing will vary from car to car and the type of engine within the car. The average pricing comes in a  wide range between $1,000.00 and up to $4,000.00. A refurbished engine is the same as a remanufactured engine because it is bringing the existing engine up to the level the engine was when the car was new. Many mechanics that focus on this type of work will either have access to the blueprints from the factory or know where they can get them. 

Is it worth getting a rebuilt engine?

As your car engine wears and tears, and you know it is time to do something, a rebuilt engine, a refurbished engine, or a new car all come to mind. Whether you want a new car payment is a personal budget matter and obligation. In addition to the cost and the time to rebuild or refurbish engines, there are other considerations to make. 

The time refers to how long are you going to be without a car while waiting on a rebuilt engine or refurbished engine. Do you have another means of transportation? Then there is the cost factor, which a mechanic can give you a rough estimate of, pretty close to the last penny in most cases. So, is a rebuilt engine worthwhile? Here are the pros and cons to consider: 

The Pros

• A rebuilt engine doesn’t require the engine to be completely disassembled and cleaned. This makes the work faster and the cost cheaper. 
• Part failure is minimal to none with engine rebuilding because the parts aren’t removed until needed.

The Cons

• A rebuild will only replace the problem parts, so the lifespan of a car engine doesn’t extend. 
• The debris and grime that accumulates over time is not cleared away
• The normal wear and tear from your regular driving won’t be updated or replaced, so all components not replaced still have the same mileage.
• A rebuilt engine doesn’t come with any warranty.

Understanding Vehicle Lifespans

The average lifespan of a car used to be a maximum of eight years while engine mileage averaged around 150,000. So maybe it isn’t that they don’t build cars like they used to, but because we sit in traffic a lot more today than we used to. The starting, stopping, and idling has factored in there as well. With that in mind, comparing engine hours vs mileage may be the better way to gauge how well an engine serves us. 

The Effect of Driving on Your Engine

Idling affects the engine hours and the wear on the engine mileage. As you sit at a red light with your engine idling, you’re not rolling the odometer. This means the mileage isn’t being clocked, yet the engine is still being used. Sixty minutes of idling is equal to 30 in engine mileage. Though we don’t typically sit at one signal light for 60 minutes, how many red lights do you sit at going to and from work and for how long? And how much does all that time add up to?

For as long as anyone can remember, measuring the condition of a car through engine mileage was the benchmark. Today, those in the automotive industry have determined that may not be the best method. Instead, using hours the car is driven may be the better judge. 

Calculating Engine Hours

Knowing how to calculate engine hours compared to engine mileage is more pertinent for fleet cars and trucks. However, as time progresses, it may become the standard for personal vehicles, too. When a vehicle is spending more time at an idle, it only makes sense that the hours:miles ratio should be used for determining a preventive maintenance schedule. The following formula can be used for calculating engine hours to engine mileage: 

• Use the data from the engine meter in determining how many hours the engine has been operated.
• Calculate those hours by the factor of 60 as an approximation of the engine mileage accumulated.
• Use the formula of multiplying the engine hours x sixty equals the approximate engine mileage.

Which engine gives more mileage?

For all the clattering noise they create and though an annoyance for many of us on the roadways, a diesel-powered engine will give you better gas mileage and have a longer engine mileage between service requirements. The typical engine mileage between a diesel engine and a petroleum engine is 25% more. 

Do you know how to check engine mileage on your car? 

Well, if you have a car with a working dashboard, you can simply read the mileage from the odometer, right? But what if you purchase a used car and the odometer doesn’t work? Know how to check the mileage on a used engine by using one of these methods: 

1. Purchase a vehicle history report.
2. As the previous owner for the maintenance records if possible.
3. A newer car with OnStar or other online telematic system would have engine mileage history. 
4. The keys for cars today often have engine mileage inside the chip memory.
5. Have your mechanic use an odometer scan tool.
6. Take the car to an authorized dealership and have the service department perform an engine mileage check with their computerized tools.

What is the mileage for an engine overhaul?

The newer engines made today can last over a million miles before the engine mileage shows enough wear and tear for a rebuild. However, driving habits can affect this. Remember how the starting, stopping, and idling, with the idling add up with the engine mileage. 

With those factors considered, an engine overhaul may be needed at around 750,000 miles. Once the engine overhaul is completed, you can expect to get another 10,000 engine miles of driving and/or idling time. 

Reasons to Replace an Engine

When you’re trying to decide whether it’s best to replace an engine, there are a few things you will want to consider. Thinking about the following can help you decide whether replacing your engine is the right move.

• Is your vehicle in good condition otherwise?
• Has your engine failed or do you want to replace it before it fails?
• Do you want to extend the life of your vehicle?
• How much might you save on insurance, taxes, and other costs?

Does replacing an engine reset mileage?

One of the most common questions people have when considering engine replacement is whether it will reset their vehicle’s odometer. It’s important to remember that an odometer is essentially a record of all a vehicle’s components and not just the engine. This means replacing an engine won’t reset its mileage and you’ll still have an accurate record of everything it’s been through.

Is it bad if a car has a new engine?

Another thing many people want to know is what kind of impact a new engine will have on a vehicle. There are pros and cons to replacing a car engine no matter what, but a new engine can offer a host of benefits. These include boosting a vehicle’s performance. After all, a new engine won’t have the same wear and tear. This is also why a new engine can have a significant impact on what a vehicle is worth, raising its overall value.

How many miles will a rebuilt engine last?

You can expect the engine in an average vehicle to last for about 10 years, or about 50 to 200,000 miles. So what can you expect when you’re replacing it with a rebuilt engine? Though a rebuilt engine may not always have the same lifespan as the original, it can last for upwards of 100,000 miles. This can double the overall lifespan of your vehicle, and with regular maintenance, you can help it last even longer.

What happens when you put a new engine in your car?

Finding out you need to replace your car engine can be stressful. In addition to the cost of this repair, you may not know what effect replacing the engine will have on your vehicle. After all, the engine lies at the heart of almost everything your car does. Fortunately, if you choose the right replacement engine, you can see plenty of benefits. 

Replacing a car engine will likely boost its performance, but that’s not all this kind of repair can do. Among the biggest perks of replacing an engine is making your vehicle more cost-efficient to use overall, as you can be more certain of its reliability. Most newer engines are also more environmentally friendly, which can make your car greener to use.

How long does engine replacement take?

Going without your vehicle is always tough, and replacing an engine is a challenging task. However, the average engine replacement doesn’t have to leave you without a car for days. Plenty of things can change how long it takes to replace an engine, such as whether other components will need to be replaced. Overall, you can expect it to take a day or two, or about twice that time with more challenging jobs.

Will insurance cover engine replacement?

Trying to find out what your car insurance will and won’t cover is always tricky. This is true even with specific jobs such as an engine replacement. Generally, car insurance doesn’t cover repair jobs, especially when they are caused by everyday wear and tear. However, in some cases it may be able to cover the engine replacement cost depending on the cause of the damage and type of insurance you have.

How affordable is engine replacement in a car?

Replacing a car engine can be costly, but so is buying a brand new vehicle. In many cases, people find the option of replacing an engine much more affordable. Taking a look at a few factors such as the complexity of the job ahead can help give you a better idea of how much replacing the engine will cost and if it’s best for your needs.

Mechanical things naturally will wear out, give us a limited lifetime, and a car motor is nothing different. With the amount of wear and tear of a car motor, overhaul is one to get a longer lifespan and minimize the small repairs that can be inconvenient and expensive. 

A motor overhaul entails taking the engine apart and replace the faulty, old, worn out  components. It isn’t creating a new engine, but a motor overhaul will extend the life of the motor to keep from getting a new car payment. The process of a motor overhaul is somewhat complex and time consuming, with each engine type taking a different amount of time with different complexities. 

If you’re taking your car to a mechanic for a motor overhaul, choose one that a good reputation and will deliver the results you expect and need. The basic steps of a motor overhaul consist of the following: 

Step One: The motor may be removed or simply lifted up from the car. 

Step Two: The motor is disassembled. This entails separating the motor from components like the compressor and pumps. 

Step Three: All bolts, nuts, shims, and other engine hardware are removed.

Step Four: Finally, the rotors are removed and then the engine is ready to be inspected. The experienced mechanic will do a visual inspection. With all the computerized technology available today in the mechanic industry, nothing beats motor overhaul experience of a trained mechanic. They can often see things with their eyes, ears, and nose than technology can find.  A seasoned mechanic knows to observe things like dust and moisture that could be the problem, or a burning smell as the dismantle the motor. The remaining motor overhaul checklist continues as follows:

Step Five: The mechanic will rotate the shafts to check the bearings.

Step Six:  The mechanic will check the ports to make sure the engine has been cooling.

Step Seven: The motor  is cleaned, and all faulty components are repaired or replaced. 

Step Eight: The motor is placed under a heat lamp to dry the inside and remove all moisture.

Step Nine: As the mechanic reassembles the motor overhaul, they will lubricate the motor to enhance the motor functioning. 

Step Ten: The mechanic will put the motor through a series of testing that ensures them it is done. 

What is a car motor mount?

The typical engine mount is made of rubber. This keeps them from clanging against the metal car frame. Some are liquid filled to reduce any vibrations and some are vacuum-controlled that automatically dampen those vibrations and sounds.

There are different mounts to a car engine, and during a motor overhaul, they are typically replaced. The engine mount doe exactly what the name says: It keeps the engine in place. Then there is the transmission mounts that keep the engine and transmission bolted together so the engine or transmission can’t move. 

How to clean car motor?

Because there are many electrical components, mechanical parts, belts and more, most people aren’t sure about cleaning the motor. Yes,  a lot can go wrong if not done carefully, but the manual process isn’t as complicated as you may think. 

The more a car is driven, the more it will pick up dirt, grime, and such while it accumulates grease and oily residue. These things make a car engine look dirty and the car motor efficiency begins to diminish. Cleaning a car engine once a year will extend the life and keep it running better, giving you better gas mileage.  The following steps for a manual cleaning can be completed within a couple of hours: 

• Make sure the engine is cool before you begin and avoid spraying any water on the engine in attempt to cool it. That can lead cracking and warping the engine. 
• Open the hood and while the engine cools, use plastic bags to cover the electrical components. This includes the air intake system, the alternator, and the distributor. Tape the bags closed. 
• Disconnect the battery terminals and remove the battery. 
• Apply  the cleaner and follow instructions. Typically most instruct to let the cleaner sit for 3 to 5 minutes so that it penetrate the dirt, grease, grime, and oil. 
• With a non-metallic brush, agitate the dirt, grease, grime, and oil built up on the motor. 
• Rinse and clear by spraying water over the engine, brushing the dirt, grease, grime, and oil away as you spray. 
• Once you have completed this, remove plastic bag coverings, folding them inward to avoid any water dripping or running out on the electrical components.
• Using clean towels or an air compressor, dry the engine thoroughly.