Can I make payments on a new engine?

Asked by: Hosea Von  |  Last update: December 21, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (34 votes)

If you don't have the cash on hand to pay for a mechanic, your next step is likely to find a way to finance an engine replacement and get your vehicle back on the road. Some mechanics or auto repair shops can offer car repair loans or payment programs by working with third party lenders.

Is it worth paying for a new engine?

New engines offer a long-term, reliable solution to your car troubles. On the other hand, used vehicles may come with their own set of engine problems. If your used vehicle replacement encounters engine issues, you could end up paying twice as much in the long run.

Can I trade in a financed car with a blown engine?

Trade In Car With Bad Engine

Most local dealers will give you very low trade-in values on a car with damage, and much lower if it isn't running. Since used car dealers sell cars in pristine condition, they will have to sink large amounts of money in order to flip your car.

How long will a car last after engine replacement?

So what can you expect when you're replacing it with a rebuilt engine? Though a rebuilt engine may not always have the same lifespan as the original, it can last for upwards of 100,000 miles. This can double the overall lifespan of your vehicle, and with regular maintenance, you can help it last even longer.

How to pay for engine repairs?

9 Ways to Pay for Car Repairs
  1. Mechanical breakdown insurance. ...
  2. Warranties. ...
  3. Vehicle service contracts. ...
  4. Personal loans. ...
  5. Auto repair loans or payment plans. ...
  6. Credit cards. ...
  7. DIY. ...
  8. Contribute to a dedicated savings account.

Should We Replace Our Car's Engine?

18 related questions found

What to do if you can't afford a new engine?

There are several ways to finance an engine. Some car repair shops may offer their own financing options, or you can consider a title loan, credit card, personal loan, or borrowing money from family or friends.

What happens if you can't afford to pay your mechanic?

When this happens, mechanics might retain your vehicle until you settle the outstanding bill. If your bill remains unpaid, they could also place a mechanic's lien on your car, potentially jeopardizing your vehicle ownership. You can avoid these situations and maintain control of your vehicle.

Is it cheaper to rebuild an engine or replace it?

Rebuilt engines typically cost less, but the job might not use high-quality replacement parts. A remanufactured engine can be as good as a new engine, last for many years and miles, and have attractive warranty coverage.

Does a new engine mean 0 miles?

Does a new engine reset mileage? No, replacing your car's engine won't reset its mileage. The odometer is connected to the front wheel hub rather than the engine, and any changes made to the engine, even as far as replacing it - won't affect the odometer. You can only reset the mileage by tampering with the odometer.

Does a car lose value if the engine is replaced?

On average, a car will depreciate by 10-20% after an engine rebuild. However, some cars may depreciate more or less, depending on the factors listed above.

Will insurance cover a blown engine?

Whether it's routine maintenance, a mechanical failure or a blown engine, car insurance will most likely not cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Hopefully, your car keeps running smoothly, but plan to pay out of pocket for routine maintenance or for a mechanic if your car breaks down.

Will dealerships take a car with a blown engine?

Believe it or not, your car with a blown engine still has worth. Dealerships might take it as a trade-in. Even junkyards might see it as useful scrap.

What happens if my engine blew and I still owe money?

As painful as it is, you're legally obligated to make your monthly loan payments to the lender until the loan is paid off. The fact that your car is a total loss doesn't change your loan repayment terms. Your lender still has the right to full repayment of the loan, even though you can no longer drive your car.

Does insurance pay for new engine?

Your insurance will not cover damage to your engine as a result of wear and tear, manufacturing defects or lack of maintenance. However, if your engine was damaged due to one of the above perils, your insurance can help pay for the damage.

Can you sell a car with a replaced engine?

With some hard work and perseverance, you can hopefully find a buyer who appreciates the value of your car despite its replaced engine. Even when selling to a dealer or trading in, be aware of the fact that they may take advantage of the situation and offer you a much lower price than they otherwise would.

How much should replacing an engine cost?

Replacing The Engine

If the damage is done, you will have to replace the engine. Usually, you can spend as much as $4,000 for a four-cylinder to upwards of $10,000 for a high-performance engine. Here you have lots of options, and, most of the time, you want to delegate the decision to your mechanic.

When you replace an engine, do you reset the odometer?

No. Replacing your engine does not, in fact, reset your car's mileage. Your car's odometer is not connected to its engine; it is, instead, connected to the front wheel hub.

Is getting a new engine like getting a new car?

No, a car with a new engine isn't the same as getting a new car. While a new engine can go a long way in extending your car's lifespan, there are other parts to consider, including the frame, suspension, complex electrical system, and more. A new engine may not resolve all issues with a car.

How do I make my engine run like new?

Six Ways to keep an old car running like it's new!
  1. Change your oil and oil filter! One of the best ways to preserve the life of your older vehicle is to keep fresh oil running through it. ...
  2. Get new coolant! ...
  3. Maintain your tires! ...
  4. Keep up with your car battery! ...
  5. Keep it shiny! ...
  6. Don't overlook the small repairs!

How long does it take for a dealership to replace an engine?

The time it takes to put a new engine in is typically only ten to 12 hours. However, the dealership isn't going to complete the job in one day, and you will be required to leave your vehicle at the shop. In most cases, the dealership should have your car back to you within one to two weeks for engine replacement.

What are the cons of replacing the engine?

Engine replacements can significantly extend the lifespan of a vehicle and restore its performance, but they can also introduce some new challenges. The vehicle feels weaker, with reduced acceleration and speed. Improper timing, air/fuel mixture issues, sensor malfunctions, or incorrect parts.

How much does a mechanic charge to rebuild an engine?

Rebuilding an engine can cost around $2,500 to $4,000, but this will still depend on the complexity of your engine, the necessary parts, and the cost of labor.

Will mechanics let you pay in installments?

Negotiate with the mechanic.

Some repair shops also accept credit cards and might be able to set you up on an affordable monthly payment plan instead of expecting a lump sum payment. Do your best to negotiate with the mechanic to create a win-win situation for both parties.

What if I don't have money to repair my car?

If you can't afford your vehicle's repairs, you can consider getting a loan to cover them. There are plenty of emergency loan options, such as personal loans, car title loans, lines of credit or credit cards. Asking a family member for a loan may also help. Also, don't rule out asking the repair shop for financing.

What if a mechanic rips you off?

Notify the Appropriate Consumer Protection Agencies

You might even end up having to file a claim in small claims court. In some instances, you might have paid cash for the repair, or your credit card company might not honor your dispute. In either case, you'll want to reach out to an agency.