You don’t have to be well versed in the automobile industry to know that your vehicle needs a good working engine to get from place to place. When that engine starts to falter, you have two main options: rebuild it or replace it. There are pros and cons to both of these options; each individual will have to determine which is best for his or her particular situation.
Option One: Rebuild Your Engine
More often than not, rebuilding your engine instead of replacing it can save you money. Of course, this depends on the specific problem you’re experiencing with your engine, as well as the parts you need to efficiently rebuild it and the time it will take to complete the job. Additionally, if you can’t rebuild the engine yourself, then you will also have to factor in the cost of labor.
During an engine rebuild, your vehicle’s engine is generally disassembled, and various parts (O-rings and timing belts) are either replaced or repaired. The engine is then put back together, cleaned, and inspected. The main benefit (besides price and saving money) of going with a rebuild is total compatibility with the vehicle’s computer system. Due to the new parts used to rebuild your engine, you may also notice an overall improvement in the vehicle’s performance. You will receive a warranty on these new parts.
While a rebuilt engine can breathe new life into a car, this option may just be a bandage for further problems that can occur down the road. You should consider how old the engine is, because even after it has been rebuilt, it may still not be able to handle heavy stresses, such as long trips. Lastly, an engine rebuild does not guarantee long-term reliability, mainly because you have an engine combined with both new and old parts. These older parts, not under warranty, could go bad at any time.
Option Two: Replace Your Engine
Some engines are so old or so damaged, that it does not make sense to spend the time and money required to rebuild them.
An engine replacement could add additional years to your vehicle, making it more reliable than it was before. Further, replacing the engine may allow you to save money on smaller repairs that you would have needed regardless, including new belts, hoses, filters, and fresh coolant. A replacement engine comes with a new warranty, protecting you and your purchase for several thousand miles, should an unforeseen issue occur.
The biggest and perhaps only downfall of an engine replacement is the cost. It is much more expensive to replace the engine versus repair it. If you do decide to replace the engine, you then have to decide if you’re going to replace it with a brand-new engine or try and find a used, working engine.
Again, there are pros and cons to both of these options. However, the deciding factor is really your budget. How much can you spend to get your vehicle in top shape? How much do you want to spend? A used engine will be significantly cheaper, but it will not last as long as a new engine.
Contact RPM Engines & Machine Today!
If you are not in the automobile industry, or you feel overwhelmed and confused by the information above, the best thing you can do is find an experienced, skilled, and trustworthy machine shop to offer you the best advice. RPM Engines & Machine is that shop.
Contact us today by calling (707) 387-9200 or fill out our convenient form to schedule an appointment. We look forward to hearing from you and will happily take care of your engine needs.