Used Engines
Buying a used engine can be one of the smartest decisions you make for your car–and for your wallet. let’s take a closer look at why that is.
Do You Know Your Engine?
If you suspect that the dreaded (but necessary) need for a replacement engine is looming, it’s natural to want to delay the expense as long as possible. After all, no one looks forward to an unexpected four-figure car bill.
However, the reality of car ownership is that postponing a critical repair or replacement, like an engine, can lead to even bigger problems down the road. Acting sooner can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Wagon Auto Parts is your trusted partner in getting your vehicle back on the road quickly and affordably. Through our nationwide network of recycling centers, we connect your specific needs with reliable suppliers who compete to offer you the best deals on quality used engines, transmissions, and transfer cases.
AN UNWELCOME VISITOR
Engine troubles are never welcome, but they don’t have to break the bank or disrupt your life. At Wagon Auto Parts, we’re here to help you identify and tackle engine issues in a way that fits your budget, lifestyle, and driving needs. Let’s begin by understanding how to diagnose the problem effectively.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Car’s Engine
Broken engines rarely fail without warning. Most cars provide weeks or even months of subtle alerts indicating underlying problems. Being attentive to these warning signs can save you from being stranded on the side of the road. Below are some common indicators that your engine might need attention and how to address them effectively.
If you notice a burning smell while driving, it’s a clear sign something isn’t right. Smoke could indicate issues such as leaking oil, a failing gasket, or even electrical problems. Ignoring this could lead to severe engine damage, so it’s best to have it checked immediately.
Visible smoke from under the hood or the exhaust isn’t just alarming—it’s a definite red flag. White smoke could mean a coolant leak, while blue or black smoke often points to burning oil or fuel. Identifying the cause early can prevent costly repairs down the line.
Engines in good condition run smoothly and quietly. If you start hearing knocking, grinding, or hissing sounds, it’s time to pay attention. These noises could signal worn-out components, misfiring cylinders, or other mechanical issues that need immediate attention.
Frequent stalling while driving or idling is not normal. This could be due to issues with the fuel system, spark plugs, or even the engine itself. Don’t wait for it to get worse—diagnose and fix the problem before it leads to a breakdown.
A sudden drop in fuel efficiency is a sign your engine isn’t working as efficiently as it should. This could be caused by dirty fuel injectors, a malfunctioning oxygen sensor, or other engine troubles. Addressing these issues can save you money on fuel and improve your car’s performance.
Where Do You Even Begin?
Once you’ve determined that your engine does need to be replaced altogether, actually going about a replacement can be tricky. This is where most people, in order to avoid the uncertainty and potential inconvenience of a long process, go with the obvious choice: leaving their mechanic to find them an engine or buying a brand-new one from their dealer.
Set Your Budget
Determine an amount you can realistically contribute to a new (or new to you) engine that won’t completely break the bank. This should include setting an absolute maximum that you can’t exceed, as well as a comfortable price range that you’d like to stay within. Setting these parameters will help you find the best possible engine within a budget that still makes sense for you.
Determine Your Engine Needs
Do you drive long distances consistently, or are your main car-related needs as simple as getting to and from work? Depending on how much wear and tear you can expect to put on your car, you may be able to determine whether you really do need a brand-new engine (with a brand-new engine price tag) or whether you can manage just fine with a used one.
Get Reliable Information
There’s a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to used car engines. As you research your potential solutions for an engine, look to reputable resources that aren’t trying to sell you anything, like the Automotive Recyclers Association.
Weigh the Pros and Cons
Getting a used engine for your car may be more affordable up front, but will it be worth it to you in the long run? The quality difference between used and brand-new engines is surprisingly small, and investing in a high-quality used engine can be a smart investment both in the short and long term.
The Truth About Used Engines
Used car engines can get a really bad rap, and it’s not necessarily deserved. The truth about used car engines is that they have a lot in common with used cars: if you understand what to look for and work with a reliable dealer, you’re likely to walk away with a fantastic option for a fraction of what you would have paid for a brand-new counterpart.
Set Your Budget
Protect Your Investment
Getting a used engine–especially a Grade A engine–is a great way to get like-new quality for a significantly more affordable price. To avoid having to go through this anytime soon, be sure to follow the best practices you can for keeping your new-to-you engine in great shape.
Manufacturing
Manufacturers typically give guidelines about how best to make any engine last to at least 100,000 miles. The highest-quality used engines are the ones whose owners have abided by these guidelines, leaving the engines themselves to show very little sign of damage or wear and tear. If you want to make sure that your engine, new or used, invest in high-quality fuel, get regular oil changes, and be sure to follow these manufacturer’s guidelines as closely as possible.
Maintenance
A driver’s best practices is only part of the deal when it comes to making sure that an engine’s lifetime is extended as possible. Always get your car regularly inspected and serviced by a trusted mechanic. Invest in full synthetic oil, get regular tune-ups, get your filters changed with every oil change, and keep an eye out for any early warning signs of engine damage in order to ensure that everything is in ship shape.
Manhandling
Healthy engines come from responsible driving. Whether you drive 5 miles on a regular day or over 50, avoid abrupt braking or acceleration. Stay attentive in order to avoid accidents, and be sure to drive your car regularly in order to avoid a stagnant engine.