How Much Does a Used Engine Cost? Your 2024 Guide

Is your car showing the dreaded signs of a major engine problem? From a knocking sound that won’t quit to a cloud of blue smoke, engine failure is a stressful and expensive situation. Before you decide to scrap your car or take on a massive loan for a new one, there’s a smart, cost-effective solution: replacing your engine with a quality used engine.

At Universal Auto Goods, we help thousands of customers navigate this exact decision every year. The most common question we get is, “How much does a used engine cost?”

The short answer is, it depends. But on average, you can expect a used engine to cost between $500 and $4,000+ for the part itself. The total cost, including installation, typically ranges from $1,500 to $7,000.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down exactly what influences the price of a used engine and give you the knowledge you need to make a confident decision.

What Factors Determine the Cost of a Used Engine?

Several key factors play a huge role in the final price tag of a used engine. Understanding these will help you know if you’re getting a fair deal.

1. Your Vehicle’s Make, Model, and Year

This is the biggest factor. Engines for common vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, or Ford F-150 are plentiful, which drives the price down. Conversely, engines for European luxury cars (BMW, Mercedes, Audi), performance vehicles, or rare models are more expensive due to lower supply and higher demand.

2. The Engine’s Specifications

Not all engines for the same car are created equal. A 4-cylinder engine will almost always be less expensive than a V6 or V8. Diesel engines also command a higher price than their gasoline counterparts due to their complex components like turbochargers and high-pressure fuel systems.

3. Mileage and Condition

A used engine with lower mileage (e.g., under 80,000 miles) will cost more than one with 150,000+ miles. At Universal Auto Goods, we thoroughly inspect and test all our engines, providing detailed mileage and condition reports. This transparency ensures you know exactly what you’re getting.

4. The Source (This is Crucial!)

Where you buy your engine matters immensely for both price and peace of mind.

• Local Junkyards: Often the cheapest option, but it’s a gamble. You rarely get a warranty or know the engine’s full history.

• Online Marketplaces (eBay, Craigslist): Prices can be low, but buyer protection is minimal. You risk getting an engine that doesn’t work or isn’t the right fit.

• Specialized Auto Parts Suppliers (Like Us!): While perhaps slightly higher than a junkyard, you pay for quality, reliability, and service. We provide a robust warranty, expert guidance to ensure perfect fitment, and customer support throughout the process.

5. Warranty Coverage

A longer, more comprehensive warranty will add to the cost but is worth every penny. It protects your investment from unforeseen issues. Always ask about the warranty details before you buy.

Breakdown of Used Engine Costs

Vehicle TypeEngine TypeAvg. Used Engine Cost (Part Only)Total Installed Cost (Est.)Common Compact Car
(e.g., Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla)4-Cylinder Gas$500 - $1,500$1,500 - $3,000Common SUV/Truck
(e.g., Ford Explorer, Chevy Silverado)V6 Gas$1,500 - $2,500$2,500 - $4,500Luxury Sedan
(e.g., BMW 3-Series, Audi A4)4/6-Cylinder Gas$2,000 - $3,500$3,500 - $6,000Performance/Luxury SUV
(e.g., Mercedes ML, Land Rover)V8 / Diesel$3,000 - $4,500+$5,000 - $7,000+

Note: Labor costs typically add $1,000 - $2,500+ depending on the vehicle's complexity and local shop rates.

Why Choose a Used Engine from Universal Auto Goods?

While the initial price is important, the true value lies in reliability and trust. Here’s why customers choose us:

• Unmatched Quality: We don’t just pull engines and list them. Each engine in our inventory is rigorously inspected and tested to ensure it meets our high standards.

• Perfect Fit Guarantee: Use our easy online search tool with your VIN to find an engine that is guaranteed to fit your vehicle perfectly. No guesswork, no hassle.

• Nationwide Network: We work with a vast network of trusted suppliers, meaning we can quickly source the right engine for your vehicle, no matter how common or rare it is.

• Transparent Pricing: The price you see includes the core charge. There are no hidden fees.

• Exceptional Warranty: We stand behind our products with some of the best warranty coverage in the industry. Drive with confidence.

Used vs. Rebuilt vs. New Engines

It’s helpful to understand your options:

• Used Engine: A pre-owned engine pulled from a donor vehicle. It’s the most affordable option and, when sourced from a reputable supplier, offers excellent value.

• Rebuilt/Remanufactured Engine: A used engine that has been completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and had all worn parts replaced. This is more expensive than a used engine but often comes with a longer warranty.

• New Engine: Purchased directly from the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). This is the most expensive option, often costing more than the car itself.

For most drivers, a quality used engine from a reliable source is the perfect balance of cost and performance.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Used Engine?

If your car’s engine is on its last legs, don’t despair. A used engine is a fantastic way to get your car back on the road and extend its life for years to come without a massive financial burden.

The easiest way to get an accurate, real-time price for your specific vehicle is to use our search tool.

Click Here to Search Our Used Engine Inventory Now!

Have questions? Our engine specialists are here to help you make the right choice.
Contact Universal Auto Goods Today!