I am in between a rock and a hardplace what should I do. with my 03' Sedan

My motor is done - had worsening oil consumption, engine knock and finally gave out at 163K

I have the option to rebuild but I need a new short block and build is extensive - with labor im looking at $7500-$8000

Or do I just drop in a used motor... I just really don't trust a used motor much, It's going to have the same oil consumption problems.

This car is my Daily Driver/Commuter car. How much should just the swap in labor cost about a grand?

and where should I look for a donor motor besides ebay and this forum?

Thanks for the help, I'm freaking out I really didn't want to buy a new car.

 

sounds like a high price rebuild, both have ups and downs...rebuilding ur motor will allow you to add the internals u want,maybe more relaible internals. and doing just a swap you could prob save money..there are used motors all over the web for 3-4k with many less miles..doing the swap is also much easier and can be done in a matter of day's

 

as far as labor for the swap id say its atleast 10hrs of labor 75-100.00hr for labor..ur looking at least 1k for swap labor,where u locaed?

 

You can get Used long block with about 50K for around $1200-$2000. >>>>>http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/04-05...Q5fAccessories

 

swap would be cheaper but id go with the build and put some high compression pistons in that **** and build a bad *** N/A motor.

 

I would just buy a used motor..........

 

I've been involved in the installation of 2 used engines-- no problem. The key piece is to know exactly what you're looking for when buying. I bought mine at a salvage yard where you can get the phone # of the previous owner and ask some questions about oil consumption, type of driving they did, did they maintain it well, etc.

Labor was approximately 6-8 hours for a Toyota Camry and around 4 for an older Volvo. Having it done by a competent mechanic in a small town can save you nearly 50% of labor costs. For example, where I am right now, the cost is $92-110 per hour, but just 1 hour away it's $35-45 per hour for the same service and both mechanics are ASC certified.

A rebuild would likely have cost me 30-50% more. A rebuilt, even if done correctly, ensures nothing, just like a used engine ensures nothing. There are new engines that blow and some that last >250K, so there might not be an advantage either way.

The other issue is the high mileage on the car-- it's not just your engine that's high mileage, it's also your suspension, electrical, bearings, tranny, etc. Overall, it's a large investment for something that could begin to nickel and dime you as it nears 190-200K.

It's like a marriage, you don't really know who you've married sometimes until you've been on the "road" together for awhile.

 

Just my opinion, but I'd never stick $7k into an 03 with 163k miles on it.

 

theres a place in texas that buys used motors from japan with lowish (40k) miles on them and sells and ships for pretty cheap.... bought a honda 4 cyl. engine for $695 shipped within a week. this might be the best bet.... if i'm not mistaken, japan's pollution control on their cars isn't as strict, so you might be able to buy a car with a few more ponies... try a google search to see if you can find the place

 

Look for another shop they charged me 5500 for a engine rebuilt. And labor. Parts 3100 labor 2600. Is better to get it rebuilt because you might get a used engine with less miles but it can also be damaged. For instance maybe the oil gaskets are bad or the rods or bearings are worn out. You never know.