Quality Used Engines or QUE versus LKQ?

ALEX STATHAS

MEMBER
2014 NISSAN VERSA
1.6L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
86,000 MILES

The Quality Used Engines website claims to have available a used engine with only 1,000 miles on it for $1,245 while LKQ has used engines over the 86,000 miles that our car has and many of them over 100,000 miles selling for $352 dollars, now is that true that a 9-year-old engine can only have 1,000 miles and also on our current 86,000 mile engine we have been maintaining it meticulously and diligently with 3 month or 3,000 mile synthetic oil changes at Walmart and it runs fine I don't hear any noise at a distance but if I stick my ear on the top of the webbed intake manifold with the hood open while it is idling then it makes a muffled rumbling timing chain noise which I also can't hear if I stick my ear to the tire in front of the engine because the alternator fan mutes the noise, how long will our current engine last provided we do 3 month or 3,000 mile synthetic oil changes at Walmart and could a 9-year-old engine only have 1,000 miles on it?

3 Replies

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
42,902 POSTS

It is possible for a 9-year-old engine to have only 1,000 miles on it, but it would be unusual. It is more likely that the engine has been rebuilt or remanufactured with new components, or that the odometer has been tampered with. It is important to be cautious when purchasing used engines and to do your research on the seller before making a purchase.

Regarding the current engine in your vehicle, if you have been maintaining it meticulously and diligently with 3 month or 3,000 mile synthetic oil changes at Walmart, it should continue to run well for a while. However, it's difficult to predict exactly how long it will last as there are many factors that can affect the lifespan of an engine, such as driving habits, environmental conditions, and regular maintenance.

The muffled rumbling timing chain noise that you hear while idling may indicate that the timing chain or related components are starting to wear out. It's important to have this checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid potential engine damage.

In summary, while it is possible for a 9-year-old engine to have only 1,000 miles on it, it's important to be cautious when purchasing used engines and to do your research on the seller before making a purchase. With proper maintenance, your current engine should continue to run well for a while, but it's important to address any unusual noises or issues promptly to avoid potential engine damage.