Blog post

Upgrade Your Engine or Buy a New Car? Which is Better?

July 20, 2023

Undoubtedly, one of the most important steps you can take to protect your vehicle is to have preventative maintenance. Doing so can extend the life of your vehicle while helping prevent engine repairs and engine replacement. However, nothing will last forever. And even when you have proactive preventative maintenance, your vehicle will eventually need repairs.

Among those potential repairs, engine upgrades and replacement in Grand Junction CO are arguably the least desirable. Engine upgrades and engine replacements are so undesirable that many drivers ponder purchasing a new car. If this explains where you’re at, there are many factors to consider and questions you should answer before making a decision. Fortunately, Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair in Grand Junction CO can help. Here are some of the most common questions we encourage our customers to consider.

What Is the New Engine Replacement Cost vs New Car?

Unless you have the proverbial money tree growing in your backyard in Grand Junction CO, money is a major factor in your decision. If your mechanic in Grand Junction CO suggests you need an engine replacement, you could be looking at several thousands of dollars in repairs. However, a new car can be much more than the most expensive engine replacement. As a result, if you’re on a tight budget, engine upgrades or engine replacement may be your best option. Make sure to work with your mechanic for guidance throughout the process.

Is Your Vehicle Under Warranty?

If your vehicle is under warranty, an engine upgrade or engine replacement will almost always be the best course of action. This is because the vehicle warranty will usually pay for the engine replacement and labor. While you may have to pay a deductible, it will be a fraction of the engine replacement cost.

Does Your Vehicle Have Other Failing Components?

For some drivers, an engine upgrade can create a like-new vehicle that continues performing for several years. For other drivers, engine replacement may be the beginning of an expensive auto repair journey. If your vehicle is in relatively good condition, engine replacement may be your best option. However, if you’re in the second group, you may be better off purchasing a new vehicle. The last thing you want to do is to pour thousands upon thousands of dollars into a dying vehicle.

What’s the Age and Mileage of Your Vehicle?

Another factor in determining whether to have an engine upgrade or purchase a new vehicle is age and mileage. It may not be realistic or smart to replace the engine in an old, higher-mileage vehicle. However, if your older, higher-mileage vehicle is in good condition, an engine replacement can open the door to several more years of use.

How Easy Are Replacement Parts to Find?

Depending on the age and model of your vehicle, finding suitable replacement parts can be challenging. Even if you can source the parts, older and rarer parts tend to have higher costs due to supply and demand. Make sure you consider the availability of parts for your vehicle when you’re considering engine replacement vs buying a new car. If parts are hard to find, it may make more sense to purchase a new vehicle.

Get a Second Opinion at Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair

If another auto repair center has suggested you need an engine replacement, it’s best to get a second opinion at Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair. Our mechanics will perform fast and effective engine diagnostics. Then we can analyze the data to understand the root cause of your problems. Afterward, we can discuss all of your options and help you think through each one to find the best course of action.

Contact Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair

When your vehicle is having problems, one of the most important steps you can take is to have a thorough vehicle diagnostics at Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair in Grand Junction CO. Our certified mechanics will thoroughly inspect your vehicle and offer unbiased suggestions on your best course of action.

At Barney Brothers Off Road and Repair, we are the leading auto repair center in the Grand Junction CO area, offering a full array of solutions:

Call us at (970) 243-9300, stop by to see us at 2394 Hwy 6&50 in Grand Junction, CO, or complete our online contact form.