Are Reconditioned Engines Reliable? A Complete Guide

If your car's engine is having problems, you might be wondering what to do next. Should you buy a brand new engine, a used one, or go with a reconditioned (also called remanufactured) engine? It can be a hard choice, and many car owners feel confused.

One big question is: Are reconditioned engines really reliable?

What is Reconditioned Engine?

Quick Answer

A reconditioned engine is a fully rebuilt engine that has been restored to original manufacturer specifications by replacing worn out parts with new or reusable components, offering near new performance at 30-50% lower cost than a brand new engine. While reliability depends on the quality of the rebuild, a properly reconditioned engine from a trusted supplier can be just as dependable as a new one, often backed by warranties (1-3 years) and providing eco friendly benefits by reusing salvageable parts. However, since "reconditioned" has no legal definition, quality varies—always verify the rebuild process, check for replaced critical components (bearings, gaskets, pistons), and choose a reputable supplier to ensure long lasting performance. For budget conscious buyers who want reliability without the high price of a new engine, a well remanufactured engine is an excellent choice.

How Is a Reconditioned Engine Different from a Used Engine?

Used Engine: Sold as is with no major repairs; lifespan depends on previous wear.
Reconditioned Engine: Completely disassembled, cleaned, inspected, and rebuilt with new or reconditioned parts.

The Reconditioning Process (Step by Step)

Complete Disassembly

Every component is removed and inspected for damage.

Replacement of Worn Parts

Pistons, bearings, gaskets, seals, and timing components are replaced.

Machining Critical Components

Cylinder heads, crankshafts, and blocks are resurfaced for smooth operation.

Reassembly & Testing

The engine is rebuilt and rigorously tested for performance, compression, and leaks.

Are Reconditioned Engines Actually Reliable?

Yes, if they are properly remanufactured by a reputable company. Here's why:

Same (or Better) Performance Than a New Engine

Reconditioned engines from trusted suppliers like Allied Engine are built to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) standards, meaning they perform just like new.
Some remanufacturers even upgrade weak components, making the engine more durable than the original.

Strict Quality Control & Testing

Unlike used engines, reconditioned engines go through multiple quality checks before being sold.
Many come with warranties (3+ years in some cases), proving their reliability.

Cost Savings (Up to 50% Cheaper Than New)

A brand new engine can cost thousands more than a remanufactured one.
Since critical parts are replaced, a reconditioned engine is far more reliable than a simple used engine.

Potential Risks (If You Choose the Wrong Supplier)

Low quality rebuilds (from shady sellers) may fail quickly due to poor workmanship.
No warranty = No protection if something goes wrong.
Always buy from a trusted source with verified reviews and solid warranties.

Reconditioned vs. Used vs. New Engines – Which Is Best?

Factor	Reconditioned Engine	Used Engine	New Engine
Cost	30-50% cheaper than new	Cheapest option	Most expensive
Reliability	High (if professionally rebuilt)	Unpredictable	Highest
Warranty	Yes (often 3+ years)	Rarely included	Full manufacturer warranty
Lifespan	Similar to new (if well rebuilt)	Short (depends on prior use)	Longest
Eco Friendly	✅ (Reuses old parts, reduces waste)	❌ (No environmental benefit)	❌ (New resources used)

Best Choice For You?

Budget conscious but want reliability? → Reconditioned
Need the cheapest option? → Used (but risky)
Money no object? → New (for maximum lifespan)

How to Make Sure You Get a Reliable Reconditioned Engine?

Not all remanufactured engines are equal. Follow these tips to avoid a bad purchase:

Buy from a Reputable Supplier: Companies like Allied Engines follow strict industry standards.
Check the Warranty: A strong warranty (at least 1-3 years) means the seller stands by their product.
Ask About Replaced Parts: Ensure critical components (pistons, bearings, gaskets) are new.
Read Customer Reviews: Look for feedback on durability and after sales service.
Verify Testing Procedures: A good remanufacturer will dynamically test the engine before sale.

Final Verdict: Is a Reconditioned Engine Worth It?

Yes! A high quality reconditioned engine offers:

Near new performance at a fraction of the cost.
Long term reliability (with proper maintenance).
Warranty protection for peace of mind.
Eco friendly benefits (reduces waste).

However, avoid cheap, no name rebuilds always choose a trusted remanufacturer like Allied Engine for guaranteed quality.