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Engine Repair vs. Engine Replacement

Detail of modern diesel engine repair, closeup of injectors in cylinder head with camshaft

Your engine is the most important and expensive component of your vehicle. As such, learning you need engine repair will hardly ever be a welcome piece of information. However, having engine repair in Grand Junction CO is much better than engine replacement. And if you need engine replacement in Grand Junction CO, it’s much more cost-effective than purchasing a new vehicle. The moral of the story is — it can always be worse. Fortunately, Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair in Grand Junction CO can and will help. 

We are the leading auto repair center for engine service, engine repair, and engine replacement in Grand Junction CO. One of the top questions we receive regarding engine service is the difference between engine repair vs engine replacement. Let’s take a closer look at these engine services and provide insight into situations where you would choose one over the other. Read on to learn more, and don’t hesitate to contact Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair in Grand Junction CO.

A Quick Look at the Most Common Causes of Engine Problems 

Some of the most common causes of engine failure include:

  • An overheating engine can be triggered by low oil, low coolant, a leak in the system, a broken water pump, and other factors. 
  • Your engine must have proper lubrication to function properly. However, an engine with inadequate lubrication often will need repair or replacement. 
  • If engine detonation (spontaneous combustion in the engine combustion chamber) isn’t immediately addressed, it can cause significant damage. Engine detonation is often caused by an overheating engine, a lean air/fuel mixture, low-octane fuel, and too much compression.

Top Signs I Need Engine Service in Grand Junction CO

While engine repair is often the most cost-efficient option, it may not always be feasible. Instead, if your engine has significant damage, it’s often more cost-efficient to replace it. Some of the top indicators you should replace the engine instead or repair are explained below. 

Colorful or Excessive Exhaust Smoke in Grand Junction CO

One tell-tale sign your engine needs repair or replacement is substantial exhaust smoke emanating from the tailpipe.

  • If this smoke is blue, it’s most likely caused by oil burning from overheating.
  • If the smoke is white, it can indicate that the coolant is in your combustion chamber
  • If the exhaust smoke is black, it means your engine may be using too much fuel.

Strange Sounds Coming from the Engine in Grand Junction CO

You know how your vehicle should sound. But if you hear a knocking sound coming from your engine, you may need an engine replacement. Similar to the presence of smoke, it’s imperative to have your engine serviced as soon as possible to prevent further damage and possibly avoid engine replacement. 

Metal Shavings Are in the Oil 

If you spot metal shavings in your oil during routine oil changes, it’s a clear sign that key parts are rubbing against each other. While your engine may be repairable if you address the problem in a timely manner, it often requires engine replacement.

Cracked Engines Require Engine Replacement

Whenever your engine block is cracked, you will need an engine replacement. A cracked engine block is often caused by:

  • Neglected maintenance.
  • Normal wear and tear.
  • An accident.

Should I Have Engine Repair vs Engine Replacement in Grand Junction CO

When determining whether you need engine repair vs engine replacement, there are many factors to consider, including cost. Fortunately, the Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair will help you think through all the options, consider every factor, and make the best decision for today and tomorrow. A few key benefits of an engine replacement include:

  • Extend the life and longevity of the vehicle.
  • Improve the performance of your vehicle.
  • Bolster the reliability of your vehicle.
  • Reduce future repair and replacement costs for hoses, filters, belts, and coolant.

Contact Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair in Grand Junction CO

If you’re looking to prevent engine repair and engine replacement, one of the best steps you can take is to have regular engine service and maintenance. Whether it’s an oil change, timing belt change, tune-up, or another engine service, Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair can help. Simply put, we are your one-stop shop for engine service. 

Contact Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair today! Give us a call at (970)208-8750complete our online contact form, or stop by to see us at 2394 Hwy 6&50 in Grand Junction CO.