The Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Remanufactured Parts

When your vehicle needs a new engine or transmission, you're faced with many choices. This guide breaks down the essential information you need to make a smart, confident decision that gets you back on the road without breaking the bank.

Remanufactured vs. Rebuilt vs. Used: What's the Difference?

This is the most critical distinction to understand. While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they mean very different things in the auto industry.

• Remanufactured: This is the highest standard. The old unit (the "core") is sent to a factory, completely disassembled, cleaned, and inspected. All wear parts like gaskets, seals, bearings, and rings are replaced with new components. Any other part that doesn't meet strict OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) specifications is machined or replaced. It's rebuilt to a factory-fresh standard in a controlled environment.
• Rebuilt: This typically involves disassembling the unit only enough to replace the specific parts that failed. Other components that are still within a wearable tolerance are often left in place. The quality can vary widely depending on the individual shop or mechanic.
• Used: This is a part taken directly from a salvage vehicle. Its history, true mileage, and internal condition are unknown. It is the cheapest but highest-risk option.

For peace of mind and longevity, a remanufactured part is the superior choice, offering like-new performance and a comprehensive warranty. Ready to see our selection? Browse our remanufactured engines or view our remanufactured transmissions.

Understanding the Purchasing Process

The Core Charge

The "core" is your old, failed engine or transmission. Because these parts are needed for the remanufacturing process, suppliers incentivize their return by charging a refundable deposit called a "core charge." You pay this charge upfront, and it is fully refunded to you once you send your old part back in the provided shipping container.

Why Your VIN is So Important

The 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is your car's unique fingerprint. Providing it during your order is crucial. It allows us to verify the exact year, make, model, and even the specific options your vehicle was built with, ensuring you receive the 100% correct part without any guesswork.

Shipping and Delivery

Engines and transmissions are heavy and ship via freight. If you are shipping to a residential address without a forklift or loading dock, you will need to request **"Liftgate Service."** This means the delivery truck will have a hydraulic platform to safely lower the part to the ground for you. This service usually has an additional fee.

Key Terms for Your Mechanic

Here are a few key terms from our main glossary that are helpful to know when discussing the installation with your mechanic.

• Long Block: The core engine assembly we provide. Your mechanic will need to transfer your existing external components (called "tinware" and accessories) onto it.
• Priming the Oil System: A critical first step where your mechanic manually circulates oil through the new engine *before* starting it for the first time. This prevents a "dry start" and ensures immediate lubrication.
• Break-In Procedure: Your new remanufactured engine will have a recommended break-in procedure for the first 500-1,000 miles. This typically involves varying your driving speed and avoiding heavy acceleration to allow the new piston rings to seat properly against the cylinder walls.

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