If you drive an older car, you will probably reach a point at which you have to decide: is it better to repair it or replace it? It’s a big decision, but one that many other people face as well. Let’s look, for instance, at a guy we know, named Joe.
Joe loves his car. Unfortunately, it’s not currently running, because it’s got engine trouble. What should he do? He’s considering a new car, but is that really the best option for Joe? We don’t think so, and here’s why.
- Did we mention that Joe loves his car? There’s something to be said for repairing things instead of replacing them. If he sticks with his old car, he’s driving something familiar and comfortable. He won’t have to replace his insurance or get used to a new ride. New cars often have unfamiliar technology, and the upkeep of all that new technology can be extremely expensive.
- An engine can be replaced more cheaply than a car. Replacing your engine can greatly extend the life of your car, and costs much less than a new car. In fact, Joe could probably buy about ten new engines for the price of one new car. Buying a new car will mean Joe has to work a car payment into his budget; buying a used car could mean he’s buying someone else’s problems. If he buys a used car, there’s no guarantee it won’t end up needing a new engine before long. He’ll be faced with the same decision again, when he could have put his money toward a new engine for his old car.
- So, are we saying a new engine is Joe’s best bet? Actually, no. A much better option would be to rebuild his existing engine. When an engine is rebuilt, it’s completely disassembled. Then all the parts are cleaned and inspected, and all the damaged parts are replaced with new or refurbished parts. The rebuilt engine is assembled with all new gaskets, seals, and lubricants. If the engine is severely damaged, more extensive work may need to be done to get it back in good working order, but in most cases, it can be done successfully.
- Why is rebuilding better than replacing? As mentioned, it saves money. It’s also better for the environment, because replacing engine parts saves on scrap. But the best reason is probably the fact that when you rebuild your existing engine, it’s better able to communicate with the existing systems in your car than a new engine.
