subject: Safely And Smartly Buying Used Engines [print this page] Safely And Smartly Buying Used Engines Safely And Smartly Buying Used Engines
There are loads of decisions and choices involved in selection of used engines, thus making them a tricky engine replacement option, with many loopholes and hindsight. If you are looking to get same generation and same-spec engine then its enough to know intricate details of your old engine, but if you want to install a modified version of engine then unless and until you are not familiar with your automobiles chassis and structure, you cannot choose the right unit. Why would you want to get a modified version? Well, simply for added performance and reliability. Sometimes the default engine seems underpowered or there are some innate reliability issues, to cater to those going for an engine from same maker but different model is a good option e.g. if you previously drove 1.8 litre petrol powered MPV and felt it was seriously underpowered then you can opt for 2.2 or 2.5 litre petrol or diesel engine at the time of replacement.
Before delving deeper into exploring this option lets go through some fundamentals of buying second-hand engines:
Since you are taking things into your hand and moving away from manufacturers recommendations so responsibility of doing complete background and feasibility check lies with you. If you dont have time to know chassis structure and engine specs in detail then ask your trusty mechanic to do the job for you.
Define your engine preferences and needs; dont let sale person de-track you from your goal. To tackle their pushy deals and questions, prepare yourself in advance.
Since you are in market specifically for low mileage used engines and not for refurbished ones so ask for a complete VIN of engine. If you are lucky and your dealer is honest he will provide you with engines history, if its available. 2nd hand units are charged according to their condition, mileage and service history so be prepared to pay extra for a pristine conditioned engine.
Believe it or not even used engines come with warranties, but warranties are directly proportional to the price tag.
Dont go for individual sellers and small garages who somehow got their hands on an engine unit, go with bigger and reputable repair chains.
Opt for only those online retailers that are already tested and tried by your friends or relatives. Dont trust online reviews, most of them are written by online marketers and rarely will you find a genuine review. Besides, people who are satisfied with their engine replacement usually dont write remarks and its only the angry ones who come online to bash the retailer, so finding a neutral, well balance review is a tough thing.
