Used or reconditioned engine: which to choose

What a used engine is

A used engine is a salvaged unit, removed from a vehicle and put back up for sale after our checks. It is neither opened up nor reground: it stays as it is, with its own mileage, already run in, and still has a good working life ahead of it.

Before we ship it we always carry out the same checks: we verify the engine code stamped on the block, we look for cracks and leaks, we check that the shaft turns by hand and that the oil is free of water and sludge. We take real photos that we send you on WhatsApp, we plug the openings and we pack the engine on a pallet. A compression test is carried out only on request.

• Engine code verified on the block.
• Inspection for cracks and leaks.
• Shaft that turns by hand.
• Oil free of water and sludge.
• Real photos sent on WhatsApp.
• Openings plugged and packing on a pallet.
• Compression test only on request.

What a reconditioned engine is

A reconditioned, or overhauled, engine has been stripped down part by part, measured and restored to as-new condition in the parts subject to wear. The block is cleaned and reground where needed, the cylinder head is overhauled and the wearing components are replaced with new or expertly reworked parts.

During reconditioning work is typically carried out on the bearing shells, piston rings, gaskets, oil seals and on the valve seats and guides; the tolerances are brought back to the values specified by the manufacturer. The result is an engine that starts again from a condition very close to that of a new part, with a longer expected service life.

Reconditioning is carried out by RVM or by selected partner machine shops; exactly what the work covers is always stated in the quote for the individual engine.

The warranty: the real difference

The difference between the two products also shows in the warranty. On used engines we offer 6 to 12 months of cover; on reconditioned engines the warranty rises to 12 to 24 months. The exact duration is always stated in the contract for the individual engine.

The warranty covers the internal parts of the unit: block, cylinder head, crankshaft and bearing shells, connecting rods and pistons, internal timing and similar components. It does not, however, cover external ancillaries, consumables or damage caused by incorrect fitting. You'll find all the details on the Warranty page of the site.

• Used engines: warranty of 6 to 12 months.
• Reconditioned engines: warranty of 12 to 24 months.
• Exact duration always stated in the engine contract.

When a used engine makes sense

A used engine is often the most sensible choice when the car is already a few years old with a good number of miles behind it, or when the budget is tight and the aim is to get the vehicle back on the road at a balanced cost. If you aren't planning to keep the car for a great deal longer, a checked used engine offers the right compromise between reliability and value.

• Older car or one with high mileage already covered.
• Tight budget, without giving up a checked engine.
• Low to medium annual mileage.
• A vehicle to get back on the road without excessive outlay.

When a reconditioned engine makes sense

A reconditioned engine is the better choice when you're after maximum service life and maximum peace of mind: for example on a well-kept car you intend to use for a long time yet, or on which you cover a high mileage each year. With its tolerances restored and a longer warranty, it is the right investment for anyone taking the long view.

• A car in good condition that you want to keep for a long time.
• High mileage over the course of the year.
• A need for maximum service life and a longer warranty.
• Valuable vehicles or ones that are hard to replace.

How to choose without going wrong

There is no choice that is right in absolute terms: it depends on your vehicle, on how long you expect to keep it and on how you use it. Our advice is always to start from the correct engine code and then assess the condition of the car together.

If you send us the make, model, year and engine code, we'll tell you what we have available and which is the most suitable option in your case. Together we weigh up the mileage, the type of use and how long you plan to keep the car, because these are the real factors that tip the decision.

We'd rather give honest advice than make a wrong sale: sometimes a used engine is the answer, other times a reconditioned one, and knowing this in advance saves you time and trouble. In any case, always start from the correct code, so you avoid assessing an engine that isn't compatible with your vehicle.