Logan Voss
The engine in your vehicle may be on its last legs, or you may be looking to make an upgrade. But what’s the difference between these two terms, and how do you know which one is right for you? Instead of investing your money in a brand-new automobile or engine, it might be a good idea to consider if you should buy a refurbished or remanufactured engine.
Refurbished Engine
A refurbished or rebuilt engine is an older engine that a mechanic has given an overhaul using an out-of-frame kit. Refurbished engines are good quality but may use parts that don’t adhere to the original manufacturer or used components still in pristine condition. Because they don’t require entirely new parts, rebuilt engines often have a shorter break-in period relative to new or reconditioned engines.
Remanufactured Engine
A remanufactured or reconditioned engine follows stricter guidelines than rebuilt engines. Remanufacturing is the process of making an engine as close as possible to being like new. A properly remanufactured engine contains all new parts, including piston rings, gaskets, and crankshaft, while also using new OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts. Because they often use new components, remanufactured engines are usually more reliable and easier to repair in the event of any mechanical problems in the future.
Which Option Is Best?
When wondering if you should buy a refurbished or remanufactured engine, the most typical factor to bear in mind is price. Both options are more cost-effective than purchasing a new engine, but a rebuilt engine will naturally run less than a remanufactured engine.
Because remanufactured engines require OEM-certified parts, they’re often more expensive. However, because they use new parts specifically designed for your engine, they have more extended and reliable warranties. It becomes an issue of how much you’re personally willing to spend and how much of a risk you’re ready to take on with your replacement engine in the long run.
