Are you in a situation where you need to buy a second hand car engine?
For the average car owner, the thought of replacing an entire engine is a strange one. Sure, we all know that car parts get faulty after a while and that we’ll need to replace them eventually. Still, we’re used to thinking about it in terms of replacing a windshield wiper, a lightbulb, or at worst even a whole transmission. Fortunately, only a few of us will ever reach a point where we need to decide on replacing an entire engine, much less find a used car engine to replace it.
So, why would anyone ever need to replace their car engine?
Why Do I Need to Replace My Engine?
It turns out there are several reasons to change your car engine. The first reason could be that your current engine is damaged. Maybe you have a cracked engine block for some reason. Or, you got into an accident and ever since, your engine has done nothing but give you problems non-stop. Getting a brand-new car may not be feasible but getting a replacement engine sure is!
Another common reason people change their vehicle's engine is due to wear and tear and high mileage. Yes, an old car that's well-maintained can continue running indefinitely, but it won't do so without problems. A lot of people will trade the vehicle in and get a newer model. Yet, some people prefer keeping the car and gradually replacing all the parts inside, including the engine.
Many car owners prefer this second option because it allows them to keep driving their old car instead of worrying about making car payments on a brand-new vehicle. For a high-mileage car, it’s wise not to spend so much on a brand-new engine, which brings us to second hand engines.
Which is Better, a Rebuilt or a Used Engine?
There’s one more decision that you need to make. Should you buy a rebuilt or used engine?
What's the difference? Well, both are second hand car engines, but they differ a bit from each other. Used engines are removed from another vehicle, maybe at a car wrecker's or someone else’s garage, and then sold to interested buyers. The engines still work and don't need to be fixed or have any of its components replaced, so used engines are slightly cheaper.
A rebuilt engine, on the other hand, is one that's had at least some of its parts and gaskets replaced. Just like used engines, a rebuilt engine came from a retired vehicle. It went through dismantling so its parts could be cleaned or replaced and then put back together again or 'rebuilt', hence the name. Since rebuilt engines had some new items put into them, they cost a little bit extra compared to a used engine sold ‘as is’.
How Much Would A Used Engine Cost in Australia?
Let’s see how much buying a second hand engine is going to cost you. Firstly, you should know that the price will depend on a few different factors like the car engine brand and model, as well as the mileage on it.
A used engine from a car wrecker’s might set you back somewhere like $5,000.
Buying second hand engines from a seller that rebuilds them could cost you much higher ($10,000 is a reasonable ballpark figure), but you can expect these engines to be much more reliable. Rebuilding services alone cost from $500-$5,000.
To put these prices into perspective, bear in mind that a brand-new engine could cost more than double the amount of a rebuilt engine, in the high $20,000 or more, depending on the specs of the engine.
Where Can I Buy A Used Engine in Melbourne?
Now, let’s get down to business. If you’re buying a used engine from around Melbourne, here are a few great places to start shopping.
Engine Plus Pty Ltd
Engine Plus in Cheltenham is a great place to start. They sell used engines for a wide range of car brands, including Asian and European brands. To see if they have what you need, all you have to do is give them a call at 1800 656 7900 or drop them an email at enginesplus@optusnet.com.au.
Toyrolla Spares
Next up is Toyrolla Spares over in Epping. They’ve been around since 1988 specialising in spare parts for Toyota and Lexus models specifically. If you’ve got a Toyota or Lexus that needs a second hand engine, give them a ring at 03 9401 4366 or drop them an email at sales@toyrolla.com.au.
Car Wreckers Melbourne
At Car Wreckers Melbourne, you can get some of the best used and reconditioned engines around. They’re located just over in Dandenong. To see if they have what you need, call them at 03 8578 4693 or send them an email at quote@carwreckersinmelbourne.com.au.
Grant Walker Parts
With over 40 years of experience under their belt, Grant Walker Parts is another reliable source for used car engines. Visit them in Bayswater or reach them at 03 9762 7233 to see if they have the second hand engine you need.
Carpart.com.au
These days, searching for used car engines is not as much a headache as it was a few years back. Head on over to Carpart.com.au and check out their Parts Finder. That's their auto parts locator that helps you find anything from windshield wipers to used car engines, all in one place. All you have to do is fill in the details of the used car engine you want, and they'll send your request out to their nationwide network of suppliers. Then all you'll have to do is sit back, relax, and wait for suppliers to provide you with offers for second hand car engines!
By Ray Hasbollah