To Change Or Repair Engine?

[Lmm]

Hey guys,

I've a 2003 Avensis 1.6 vvti which has engine issues. My mechanic has told me that some oil pressure problem has damaged two valves in the engine. I need opinions on whether I should change the entire engine or just repair the valves etc..? I have also recently change the oil pressure switch and the starter.

I have been quoted €1000-€1200 for an engine with rougly 40,000 miles with warranty, plus I'll also need to fit a new clutch if changng the engine. My other option is to source new valves for the engine and fit them even though this will also mean fitting a new head gasket and rocket cover and getting the head skimmed and pressure tested etc...

Which option would be the best solution? There is the issue of changing the valves only to have the engine still not run due to another problem, which is a risk. Or, I could change the engine which is costly. Would a change of engine affect the resale price, even though the new engine would have less mileage?? Both options would also include getting an oil pump to hopefully solve the oil problem.

Anyone have an opinion on which option I should choose?? Any feedback very much appreciated!!!!! Many thanks! :)

[GPO]

Hi

Just an opinion.

I'm not quite sure why you would need to get the head skimmed if a new head gaskett is fitted (is an oversize gaskett available ?) or to change the clutch if a new engine goes in (presuming the replacement engine is the same spec as the original).

If the problem is due to low oil pressure, is the rest of the engine OK, ie big ends, mains etc. ?

How much is it to get the engine stripped down, valves changed and re assembled ? I'm guessing you'll not get much change out of £700 0r £800 even at an independent garage - if it was me I think I would opt for the 40K engine with warranty.

Good luck with it.

[Lmm]

Thanks very much for your reply!

I think I've decided to just replace the engine, at least I would be sure that the car would be in mechanical order once fitted. I've been ringing around all day trying to source an engine and I have finally found a 47K engine for €850. Which is a good price considering the majority are about the €1000 and to repair the engine would work out somewhere around €900 so it a no brainer.

Here's hoping once this is done it will be problem free motoring for another while!!! :)