An Honest Call on the Engine
Before anyone mentions a new motor, we find out exactly what's gone wrong. A compression test, a leak-down test and a look inside with a borescope tell us whether the engine can be repaired.
Sometimes a head gasket, a timing job or a set of injectors is all it needs, and that's what we'll recommend. When the damage is deeper, such as a spun bearing, a cracked block or a cylinder that has lost compression, swapping the engine is usually faster and cheaper than rebuilding it.
We'll also tell you straight if the car isn't worth the money. On some older vehicles a replacement engine costs more than the car is worth, and you deserve to know that before you spend it.
Common Reasons a Motor Needs Replacing
If you notice any of these, stop driving and call us. Another trip on a failing engine can turn a repair into a replacement. Not sure what you're hearing? Start with engine diagnostics.
Second-Hand or New, Matched to Your Car
Second-hand: a used engine with the same code as your original, sourced from a supplier we trust. For most older cars and high-kilometre utes it's the most cost-effective way back on the road.
New: a brand-new long motor or complete engine where one is available, for when you plan to keep the vehicle for years or want the most peace of mind.
We match the engine code, check what's included and compare prices for you, so you can choose with the numbers in front of you.
More Than Bolting It In
A replacement motor is only as reliable as the parts around it. While the engine bay is empty, we fit fresh service items and check the things that commonly kill engines a second time.
Fresh fluids & filters
New oil, oil filter and coolant so the engine starts life clean.
Cooling system
Radiator, hoses and thermostat checked so it can't overheat again.
Timing & seals
Timing belt, gaskets and seals looked at before the motor goes in.
Tested & road tested
Codes cleared, leaks checked and the car driven before you collect it.
Exactly what's needed depends on the engine and its history, so it's all itemised on your quote. If we find something extra while it's apart, we call you before doing it.
From Diagnosis to Driving Away
Confirm
Tests show whether the engine can be saved or needs replacing.
Quote
Second-hand and new options priced side by side, with timeframes.
Swap
Old motor out, ancillaries transferred, replacement fitted with new service parts.
Run in
Started, checked for leaks and road tested, with advice on the first few hundred kilometres.
Engine Jobs in the Bay
Back on the Road
“I had an engine fault that I could not get of my dash, after wasting alot of money and no luck with 2 other garages to remove the fault, stephen and his team managed to get it resolved. My car is driving like new now.”
“I was stranded on the freeway and rushing home to get the kids after work, rang You Beauty Motors and Ste was amazing, put me as ease right away and organized a tow truck to get my car”
“just hald holden colarado LTZ in for service and cv boots replaced and a full diagnostic check , customer service was second to none , job was done in the time frame i was told , and was very happy with the price”
Engine Replacement FAQ
Is it worth replacing the engine or should I sell the car?
It depends on the car's value and condition. We'll give you the full cost and an honest opinion. If the rest of the car is solid, a replacement engine is often far cheaper than buying another vehicle.
Are second-hand engines reliable?
A good used engine with sensible kilometres, matched to your car's engine code, can give years of service. We fit new service items and check the cooling system so it has the best start.
How long does an engine replacement take?
Most of the time goes into sourcing the right motor. Once it's here, the swap is usually a couple of days for a common car, longer for 4WDs, prestige and European models. You'll get a timeframe with the quote.
Can you replace the engine in a 4WD, ute or European car?
Yes. We work on everything from small hatches to diesel utes, LandCruisers and European prestige cars.
Do you need to see the car first?
To quote properly, yes. We need to confirm the engine has actually failed and record the engine code. If it can't be driven, call us and we'll help work out how to get it here.
