Imagine the horror when you wake up one morning and the engine of your car is busted! Ok maybe not “horror” but we can both agree it is not a pleasant situation. In the case where the engine is totally beyond repairs, you will need to purchase a replacement. You can either get a new engine or a used one. Used engines are typically cheaper while maintaining the reliability of a new engine so we understand if you wouldn’t want to leave a dent in your finances. Before purchasing a used engine, here’s what you have to know.
Company reputation
Who is the seller and what do you know about him? What do other clients say about their products and services? Many posers and scammers will rip you off without a second thought. Before finalizing any deal, make inquiries about the company. You can make your searches online or ask around.
How old is the engine and what is its mileage?
You want a used engine not a piece of crappy old metal. Plus the age of the engine will affect its performance. Also, inquire about the engine’s mileage. Engine with more miles would cost less but won’t last as long. Your pick should have about 15,000 miles per year. ● Is the engine tested?
Most used engines are salvaged from damaged cars. Sometimes from cars that had been in accidents. In this case, the engine may be perfectly fine but you can’t bet on that till you have tested the engine. You can either buy the engine or then test that it works or you can buy an already tested engine to save you the stress and the disappointment of having a dysfunctional engine. When buying a used engine, go with a technician who can test the engine out before you finalize the purchase.
Will the engine be compatible with your vehicle?
Say the engine is perfect, it works just right. You should ask yourself if it’s the perfect fit for your vehicle. The engine doesn’t have to be identical to your original car engine for it to be compatible. Do your research to learn which engine will be the right fit for your car rather than buying one that isn’t.
Does the engine come with a warranty?
Make sure the engine comes with a warranty and check what the warranty covers and how long it lasts. The warranty should come in writing and should include any conditions. Some stores would have warranties attached to your receipt. You want to make sure you hang onto that receipt because you may need it. The advantage of having a warranty is that you can return the engine if it has a fault or a complaint.
Conclusion
We hope the information contained in the article helps you make the right choice when buying a used engine. The points outlined here are the “need-to-knows” that will stop you from making the wrong choices or falling for scams.
