The Difference Between Remanufactured, Rebuilt and Second-hand Engines

Author: Mkl Motors

After-market car engines can be categorised into three types—rebuilt, reconditioned and second-hand ones. Many are unaware of the difference between these engines; and, thus, in this post, we are explaining these three categories in brief to the confused lot.

First, let us start with explaining reconditioned engines

Simply put, a reconditioned engine is basically a batteredengine that is re-engineered to perform like a new one. That’s the simplest definition (without being simplistic). The process of having a reconditioned engine is relatively simple; we have broken the process into a set of steps that include:

Sourcing defected engines from a heap of scraps (commonly found in an automotive junkyard)

  • Finding defects in the sourced engine
  • Dismantling the engine
  • Machining it accurately
  • Getting new parts
  • Assembling each of the new parts in the machined engine
  • Dyno testing of the newly assembled engine
  • Installing the reconditioned engine

The advantages

The benefits of a reconditioned engine are as follows:

  • Having extended warranty
  • Ensuring long service life
  • Getting the new performance at economical rates

Now, if that is a reconditioned engine, what is a rebuilt engine?

In its previous life, a rebuilt engine was an aged (and mostly overused) engine. (All its parts were worn out.) However, the old engine will get the tag of getting ‘rebuilt’ once all its worn-out parts are replaced by second-hand ones (that are in mint condition). The process of rebuilding an engine consists of:

  • Sourcing the engine from a scrapyard
  • Dismantling the sourced old engine
  • Finding defects
  • Getting the parts that will replace the defected ones
  • Inspecting the new parts once again
  • Assembling all the parts
  • Painting the engine

And, now, there is a rebuilt engine waiting to be gunned.

The advantages

The benefits of having a rebuilt engine are as follows:

  • The driver/car owner can rest assured of the engine’s reliable performance.
  • Get an engine that is as good as a new one and is available at rock-bottom prices.
  • Such engines, by and large, come with a warranty.

What is a second-hand engine?

This category is the simplest to explain. (And many know about it, too.) A second-hand engine is plucked out of a car and is fitted inside another car (having the same model.) The process of getting a second-hand engine comprises:

  • Sourcing the engine from a vehicle
  • Dismantling the engine for testing parts
  • Installing the engine
  • Fitting ancillaries

The advantages

  • This is the cheapest engine if replacing an engine is in the cards.
  • Such engines are simple to source.

Because of these reasons, many prefer buying rebuilt, reconditioned or second-hand Mercedes engines for sale; because a new one will cost a small fortune.