Knowing that your car requires an engine replacement can be a stressful experience. Decide whether or not it’s worth it to fix your car. There are times when investing in a new vehicle instead of a new engine makes more sense.

Which option is best for your situation depends solely on you. You don’t have to pay full retail price for a new engine if you decide to fix it. A used one can save you a lot of money. This is due to the fact that used auto parts are significantly less expensive than brand-new ones. It is possible to save money on car repairs by purchasing a pre-owned engine.

It’s possible, however, that purchasing an engine from a shady salvage yard or off of Craigslist will leave you in an even worse situation. Your car won’t start if you buy a used engine that breaks down. You’ll lose the money you spent. Then you’ll have to start the process all over again, while also trying to get your money back for the junk engine you bought.

So if you’re going to buy a used engine, make sure it’s a high-quality model. Reduce your risk by following these tips when purchasing a used engine.

Can you trust this business?

Scams at the junkyard are commonplace. Go online before purchasing anything from an antique or salvage shop. Make sure to look up any certifications, awards, or reviews you can find. Ensure that you’re dealing with a legitimate business. Look for any warning signs and use your common sense. That which appears too good to be true is most likely so.

What is the engine’s mileage and age?

The engine’s lifespan is influenced by the number of miles it has been driven. Engines with a higher mileage cost less, but their lifespan may be shorter. About 15,000 miles per year is ideal for your ideal motor. Simply divide the total miles on the engine by the number of years it has been in service and you’ll get the answer.

Is it put to the test?

Wrecked vehicles often have working engines even after they’ve been declared totaled. On the other hand, this isn’t always the case. It is especially dangerous if the damage to the vehicle is in the front, or if the engine is on fire.

In order to determine the health of your engine, you have two options: In order to test whether or not the engine works, you can purchase and install the engine at your own risk. Alternatively, you can purchase a pre-tested engine. The second approach is much simpler.

Engine testing can be done in one or two ways. Run tests are the first step. Regardless of whether the engine is mounted on a stand or still connected to the vehicle, a certified technician can perform these tests while the engine is running.

Compression testing is the second approach. When the car won’t start, this can reveal a lot about the engine’s condition.

Is this engine compatible with my car?

You don’t have to have an exact match in order to find a good engine for your vehicle. It is not uncommon for automakers to use the same engine in a variety of models over the course of several years. Make sure the used engine you’re considering will fit your vehicle by doing some research. It’s possible to find out which specific models will work with the proprietary system.

What’s included in the warranties?

You should never buy a used engine unless it comes with a warranty. Take a look at what is covered and how long the warranty is. Check to see if there are any exclusions to the warranty before purchasing.