Why Did My Vehicle’s Engine Fail? Top Seven Reasons You Need To Replace Your Engine.

“Used car engines” is one of the top Google Searches related to automobiles. There’s a reason for this trend. Many people hold onto their vehicles for years, performing regular maintenance updates and fixing issues as they arise. Sometimes, however, a car’s major mechanical parts break down and need to be replaced. No matter how well you take care of your vehicle, eventually, things happen.

If you’re in the market to purchase a used engine for your automobile, you may be wondering what caused your engine to fail in the first place.

Here are some of the top causes of engine failure and why it’s important to get it fixed.

Engine Failure

Severe engine damage or failure may be caused by factors outside of your control. Other times, it’s a product of ongoing neglect. Causes of engine failure include overheating, lack of oil, or internal component wear and tear. Most of these causes require you to replace your engine.

High Mileage

As a car accumulates miles, the engine components may wear out, reducing performance and efficiency. This is something beyond your control. High mileage is one of the top reasons you may need an engine replacement. Many times, the cost to repair is significant and the more cost-effective solution is to replace your engine.

Catastrophic Damage

Accidents or catastrophic events such as a major collision may cause irreparable damage to the engine, rendering your vehicle totaled. While a mechanic will be able to diagnose specific issues with your engine, sometimes the damage is obvious. Accidents happen, but when the engine is beyond repair, you’re going to need to purchase a used engine replacement.

Lack of Maintenance

Poor maintenance practices, such as neglecting regular oil changes, can lead to increased friction, overheating, and eventual engine damage. In such cases, replacing the engine may be more cost-effective than extensive repairs. Catching and fixing the problem before it creates further issues is always the best option.

Oil or Coolant Contamination

If contaminants like coolant or metal particles mix with the engine oil, it can cause significant damage to internal components. In some cases, cleaning and repairing these components may not be sufficient. In this case, the only option is to replace your engine.

Timing Belt Failure

The timing belt plays a crucial role in synchronizing the engine’s components. If the timing belt fails, it can result in serious engine damage. Replacing the timing belt might prevent this, but if the failure has already occurred, purchasing a used engine replacement may be necessary.

Excessive Smoke or Emissions

If your car consistently emits excessive smoke, indicating burning oil or other issues, or fails emissions tests due to severe engine problems, replacing the engine might be the solution. Either way, seeing smoke or visible engine emissions is never a good sign.
Before deciding on engine replacement, it’s always best to consult with a professional mechanic who can thoroughly assess the extent of the damage and provide guidance on the most cost-effective solution, which may involve a new engine. Once you’ve determined that it’s time purchase a used engine, Quality Engines & Transmissions provides fast and always free quotes from top used auto parts suppliers nationwide.