Struggling to Find a Quality Used Engine? Try These Tips

Shopping for used engine can be stressful. Search of quality used engine can quickly turn into chaos of questionable sellers, uncertain warranties and mismatched parts whether you are trying to get your vehicle back on the road after a breakdown or working on project car. But never lose a hope; find a reliable used engine at decent price is possible. You just need to know what to look for and how to avoid common pitfalls, when you buy used engine for all car models. Here are some of the tested tips to help you find the quality used engine which won’t leave you stranded on the road.

Know Exactly What You Need

Before your start your search, you need to make sure that you know the exact specifications of the engine you are looking for. Vehicle make, model, engine size and VIN are the necessary details. Many of the car manufacturers produce multiple engine variation for single model year; so even small details can make a huge difference. Also, check if your vehicle required a specific engine code. This code ensures the compatibility with other internal components, especially with electronics. It is better to take a few extra minutes now than to buy an engine which you cannot be used later.

Choose Reputable Sellers

Not all the used engine sellers are created equal. If possible, than shop from the seller that has established its reputation. Reputable salvage yards, auto recyclers and certified used parts dealers are more likely to provide accurate information of used engine such as, mileage, condition, verified vehicle history and also offers some form of warranty. To confirm the reputation, you can check their online reviews and verifies that the business is licensed. Avoid the sketchy listings from private sellers with less contact information or sellers that are reluctant to answer detailed questions.

Check Mileage and Service History

Mileage of used engine is one the most important factor to determine the remaining life of engine. Engines with lower mileage, generally offers better reliability and longer service life. Try to buy anquality used engine with fewer than 75K miles, if possible. To confirm the mileage, ask for the service history or records, especially if the engine is coming from salvaged vehicle. These documents make your understand that whether the engine has been maintained properly, does it regular oil changes and replacement of timing belt.

Inspect the Engine

If you are buying locally, request for in-person inspection. Look for signs of damage, excessive rust, oil leakage or worn components. If you are purchasing online from a certain distance than ask for the photos, videos and a report of compression-test and leak-test. These tests provide the insights into the internal health of engine which reveals the issue like worn piston rings or failing valves. Moreover, it also verifies that the engine hasn’t been exposed to flood damage which can be catastrophic and difficult to repair. If the engine comes from a flood-damaged vehicle, it’s best to walk away.

Understand the Warranty

Never purchase a used engine without warranty, no matter how good the deal sounds. Quality used engine comes with warranty which shows the seller is confident in the product and gives you peace of mind. Common used engine warranties range from 30days to 6months but some reputable dealers even offer extended warranties for an extra cost. Read the fine print carefully. Make sure you understand what is covered and what could void the warranty.

Ask about Return Policies

Even if you have done all your homework, sometimes engines simply don’t work out with your vehicle. May be it doesn’t fit properly or you discover a hidden issue after installation. That is why it is important to understand the seller’s return or exchange policy. Will they accept the engine back, how long do you have to initiate a return or will you responsible for return shipping or restocking fees? Clarify such details upfront can save you headaches down the line.

Consider Buying a Remanufactured Engine

If you are having hard time finding a trustworthy used engine than it might be considering a remanufactured engine. These engines are professionally rebuilt with new components and tested to meet or exceed the OEM specifications. You can say that these engines are quality used engines which are more expensive than typical used engine but they generally comes with warranty of up to 2 years which makes them a long-term investment.

Have a Trusted Mechanic Do the Installation

A high quality used engine can be ruin by poor installation. Unless you are an experienced DIY mechanic, it is recommended to have a trusted mechanic handle the installation. They will ensure that everything is properly aligned, torqued, and integrated with your vehicle system. Some warranties even require professional installation to remain valid.

Final Thoughts

From the above gist, we concluded that finding a quality used engine is not that complex process. With the right knowledge, patience and reliable seller like carpartsstoreusa.com, you can source a solid engine which saves your money and keeps your vehicle running smoothly.