The Used Car Engine Price Listing: A Buyers Guide

If you ever need to replace the motor in a used car, engine price information for various types of re-manufactured or used engines may be useful to you. However, you should be aware that various engines may be come in two basic versions that vary considerably in price. These are: long and short block engine types.

Long Versus Short Block Engine

The main difference between a long or short block version of an engine is the components that are actually included with the motor. In most cases, a short block engine is a motor that comes with only the lower section included (or the motor without the cylinder heads or head gasket attached).

On the other hand, a long block engine is considered to be a more complete motor replacement option as it usually includes the cylinder heads and the head gasket. The cost you pay for any replacement engine will directly depend on which engine type you purchase. Naturally, a long block engine will always cost more than its short block counterpart.

Prices of Popular Replacement Engines

While re-manufactured or used engines are available for almost any make and model vehicle that you can imagine, some engines are indeed more popular than others. The reasons that a particular engine or motor may be in high demand or popular vary as much as the types of engines that are available.

However, if you are searching for one of the more popular engine types, this list will give you some basic pricing information that you can used to estimate ball park figures for 3 of the best selling engine types. Just remember that the pricing information below is provided for reference purposes only and that you may find prices that or higher or lower than those listed here.

• Chevrolet 305 - This engine is definitely one of the most sought after and popular types sold on the Internet. This 5.0 liter engine was first introduced in 1976 and was used in numerous Chevrolet and GM cars and trucks until 1992. The engine can be found at websites operated by engine re-manufacturers and used engine dealers. Prices for this particular engine vary considerably; however, you will probably pay between $1000 and $3000 in most cases. However, if you require a high performance version, be prepared to pay much more.
• Ford 302 - The 302 is 5.0 liter engine that was produced by Ford for use in many popular vehicles between 1968 and 2001. The popular engine was used in famed Ford muscle cars like the Mustang and 1968 Shelby GT as well as in luxury Ford vehicles like the LTD and Lincoln Continental. Because of its popularity, the engine is available from many sources. Prices for the Ford 302 range between about $800 and $3500. However, high performance versions can run you as much $10,000 - $15,000.
• Honda K20 - The Honda K20 engine comes in several variations that vary widely in price and availability. Popular Honda models that have used this engine include the Accord and Civic, and engines for these particular vehicles are the most popular and easiest to find. For a K20 replacement motor, you should expect to pay around $1000 for a basic re-manufactured short block engine and prepare to pay more than $7000 (or more) for highly modified versions.

Related Questions and Answers

In many cases, the most expensive engine part to replace are the head gaskets. Replacing a head gasket can cost upwards of $2,000. When it comes to expensive repairs, the engine is one of the most expensive areas to have work done on. Coming in a close second, would be the transmission. Powertrain repairs can be very expensive. Rebuilding a transmission can easily run $2,000 or more. When getting your vehicle repaired, call around for estimates and check the reputation of the shop. Its important that you are confident in the work being done on your vehicle.