Is An Engine Rebuild Worth the Cost?
Determining whether or not an engine rebuild is worth the cost can be an intimidating process. You will want to consider the age of your vehicle, the number of miles, and the resale or trade-in value. And, whether any other type of engine repair is not feasible.
So, let's assume that you have a car 20 years old, that it has 200,000 miles on it, and it has bent rods. Also, let's say that the cost of an engine rebuild - everything new - will run around $2,000; the cost of the labor is $75 an hour and it will take ten hours to complete the full engine repair for a total of $750. Keep in mind that these are just estimates in a hypothetical situation to help you decide whether the cost of this engine rebuild is worth it for you.
Since the car is 20 years old it may not be worth much more than $2,000 even with a rebuilt engine and it may be worth about $500 as scrap. Another thing to consider is the total number of miles and the wear and tear on other parts. Putting close to $3,000 into a 20-year-old car with 200,000 miles might not be worth it. Other problems may be developing. For example, you may have problems with rust, dents, scratches, electrical issues, broken windows, upholstery stains, broken windows, or general wear and tear. These issues will likely decrease the overall value of the vehicle and its utility.
However, with a newer car, say 5 years old or less and worth at least $15,000, the replacement cost of another vehicle will be much higher than an engine repair. In this case, a full engine rebuild is not only worth it but also could also increase the value of a car that does not suffer from other wear and tear problems.
Concerned about a pending engine rebuild? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about our engine repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Determining whether or not an engine rebuild is worth the cost can be an intimidating process. You will want to consider the age of your vehicle, the number of miles, and the resale or trade-in value. And, whether any other type of engine repair is not feasible.
So, let's assume that you have a car 20 years old, that it has 200,000 miles on it, and it has bent rods. Also, let's say that the cost of an engine rebuild - everything new - will run around $2,000; the cost of the labor is $75 an hour and it will take ten hours to complete the full engine repair for a total of $750. Keep in mind that these are just estimates in a hypothetical situation to help you decide whether the cost of this engine rebuild is worth it for you.
Since the car is 20 years old it may not be worth much more than $2,000 even with a rebuilt engine and it may be worth about $500 as scrap. Another thing to consider is the total number of miles and the wear and tear on other parts. Putting close to $3,000 into a 20-year-old car with 200,000 miles might not be worth it. Other problems may be developing. For example, you may have problems with rust, dents, scratches, electrical issues, broken windows, upholstery stains, broken windows, or general wear and tear. These issues will likely decrease the overall value of the vehicle and its utility.
However, with a newer car, say 5 years old or less and worth at least $15,000, the replacement cost of another vehicle will be much higher than an engine repair. In this case, a full engine rebuild is not only worth it but also could also increase the value of a car that does not suffer from other wear and tear problems.
Concerned about a pending engine rebuild? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about our engine repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
