What's the price to fix a blown motor?

Author: Lenna Hegmann III  |  Last update: Friday, July 18, 2025

What to do with a car with a blown engine? In terms of parts and labor, a typical engine rebuild costs between $2,500 and $4,000.

How much will it cost to fix a blown motor?

Understanding the cost to replace an engine and the factors affecting this cost is crucial for anyone who might be facing this situation. There's a wide range of costs you can expect, depending on the model, the year, and the completeness of the replacement, and it could be anywhere from $2,000 to more than $10,000.

Is a blown engine worth fixing?

Sure. It's simple economics. If the fixed car will provide reliable service long enough that the cost of repairing it is less than replacing it, then do it. Once a worn/old engine is properly rebuilt, the car is significantly more likely to operate reliably for another decade.

Can a blown up engine be fixed?

Yes even if you have done something really bad like put a rod through the side of the block, it can still be fixed. The big question is about the cost of it. Is it worth fixing or do you get a second hand engine instead?

How much is a car worth with a blown motor?

The value of a vehicle with engine problems depends on numerous factors including the year, make, model, mileage, condition, location, and more. If your engine blows up on you and you want to sell it, we can pay anywhere from $500 to $10,000 or more depending on what kind of car you have.

How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Blown Engine? - LearnToDIY360.com

What happens if my engine is blown but I still owe money?

If the car breaks down and can't be driven, you're still on the hook. The vast majority of car loans are just that: loans. The credit union makes the loan in good faith, and you are obligated to payback the money on schedule – regardless of the condition of the vehicle.

How much is a rebuilt motor?

Given the labor-intensive nature of an engine rebuild, having a shop do it for you will be expensive. Rebuilding an engine can cost around $2,500 to $4,000, but this will still depend on the complexity of your engine, the necessary parts, and the cost of labor.

Will insurance cover a blown engine?

Whether it's routine maintenance, a mechanical failure or a blown engine, car insurance will most likely not cover the costs of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Hopefully, your car keeps running smoothly, but plan to pay out of pocket for routine maintenance or for a mechanic if your car breaks down.

Will a dealership buy a car with a blown engine?

Sell a car with a broken engine for an instant offer, and you will get less than what it's worth. That's because local junkyards and car dealerships need to make a profit. Not all dealerships will even consider buying a car with a blown engine.

How to tell if a motor is blown?

Here are some ways to find out if your engine is showing signs of failure.
  1. Check Engine Light. This light is the most obvious clue. ...
  2. Constant Overheating. ...
  3. Decreasing Fuel Economy. ...
  4. Loss of Power. ...
  5. Engine Stalling. ...
  6. Rough Idle. ...
  7. Excessive Noises and Vibrations. ...
  8. Infographic.

Can a car be totaled if the engine blows?

Although a car can be totaled due to mechanical failure, when damage is extensive enough that repair costs exceed its value, your insurance will not pay if the cause is wear and tear or a mechanical issue.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace an engine?

Rebuilds typically cost less, but they don't have to meet the exhaustive standards that most remanufactured engines have.

Can I sell a car with a blown engine?

The short answer is 'YES'. You can sell a car with a blown engine. From a legal standpoint, your car has to be in the condition you describe it in. If your engine is blown and won't start, it's pretty clear to a buyer: they're going to need to do some engine work.

Is it worth to repair a blown engine?

Blown Engines

When an engine faces severe damage, it can quickly spread from one component to the next. Repairing your engine at this stage is often not an option.

Is getting a new engine like getting a new car?

It depends on your vehicle's age and the wear and tear on other components, such as the transmission. A new engine, with proper maintenance, should last between 100,000 to 200,000 miles or more. So, it can be like getting a new car in certain situations.

How much do mechanics charge to replace a motor?

On average, the cost of replacing an engine can range from $2,500 to $5,000 or more, depending on these factors. It's essential to obtain quotes from reputable mechanics or auto repair shops to get an accurate estimate for your specific vehicle.

What is the best thing to do with a car with a blown engine?

Trade Your Car

While a car with a blown engine might now be worth much to you – or anybody else for that matter – most car dealerships will accept it in a trade. With this, you can trade in your car to help pay for a new one. The car dealership will then take your car and either sell it or use it for pieces.

Can I trade in my car if it needs a new engine?

Your dealership will need to do an evaluation of your car to offer you an accurate trade-in value, but the general rule of thumb is almost any kind of car dealership will trade-in any kind of vehicle as long as it is driveable. If they can't fix it and sell it on their lot, chances are they know another lot that will.

Will CarMax buy a car with a blown engine?

The short answer to this question is yes, they do. CarMax buys cars in all types of shape. They buy cars with transmission trouble, engine trouble, blown head gaskets, bad clutches and more. CarMax will buy almost any vehicle.

How to get insurance to pay for car repair?

File a claim
  1. Call the police. If the damage to your car is a result of an accident, theft, or vandalism, call the police and have them file a report.
  2. Take pictures. ...
  3. File your claim. ...
  4. Assignment and tracking of the claim. ...
  5. Damage evaluation. ...
  6. Receive your claim settlement.

What is a fully blown engine?

There is no one way to blow an engine, but it refers to a motor that has suffered catastrophic internal mechanical damage. An engine doesn't actually blow up, even though there may be smoke, steam, or rarely even fire. The damage is so extensive that it affects the majority of the engine parts.

Will gap insurance cover a blown motor?

GAP insurance does not apply in the event of engine failure, mechanical malfunctions, owner death, or in cases where extended warranty coverage conflicts.

Is it cheaper to buy a new engine or rebuild?

Next, consider the costs; rebuilding can often be cheaper, but if the engine has suffered significant damage, replacement might be more cost-effective. Rebuilding can also be a time-consuming process while replacing with a new or used engine might be quicker. Lastly, consider the impact on the vehicle's value.

How long does it take for a dealership to replace an engine?

The time it takes to put a new engine in is typically only ten to 12 hours. However, the dealership isn't going to complete the job in one day, and you will be required to leave your vehicle at the shop. In most cases, the dealership should have your car back to you within one to two weeks for engine replacement.

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