An engine functions like the heart of a car. It must work well for the vehicle to function and perform smoothly. Like your heart, a car’s engine needs to be cared for to continue working in optimum condition. Unfortunately, engine failures are common even with proper care and maintenance.
Engine failures can happen when the engine’s cooling system malfunctions or experiences low or overfilled engine oil. When this happens, you are given two choices: replace the engine with a new one or rebuild it. For Mercedes owners, the choice may vary depending on what you choose to spend your money on.
Replacing a Mercedes engine is expensive, while rebuilding it will cost much less. While both options are feasible, they each have their advantages and disadvantages that might affect you in the long run. To decide between the two, we’ve gathered the pros and cons of rebuilding and replacing engines to get the best performance for your Mercedes.
Understanding the Mercedes Engine
Mercedes is one of the leading automotive engine manufacturers that offers various types of engines. Some are built and designed for fuel efficiency, raw power, and even to strike a balance. It can be difficult to decode a Mercedes engine, but once you’ve understood the basics, you’ll realise it is not as complicated.
Mercedes has two types of engines that can identified from the first letter: M for petrol engines and OM for diesel engines. The digits follow the identifying letter to represent the engine family and series. Lastly, the last figure in the engine identification indicates specific variants within a series. An example is the M113 K, which identifies a petrol engine Kompressor.
Additionally, all Mercedes engines are equipped with the parts below:
- Pistons
- Crankshaft
- Camshaft
- Timing Chain
- Head Gasket
All these parts need to be in good condition for a vehicle to run smoothly. Now that you’ve understood Mercedes engines and their features, deciding between replacing and rebuilding an engine will be easier.
Rebuilding a Mercedes Engine
When rebuilding Mercedes engines, mechanics remove them from the car to disassemble and inspect their parts and components. Mechanics may reuse parts and components of the engine that are in good condition or serviceable and replace broken or worn-out parts. Once done, the engine will be reassembled and reconnected back into the car.
With only a few specific components to be replaced, the problem could be easily fixed with rebuilding. However, many experts would only recommend this work for an engine if it is a relatively new car with minor damage. To learn if this option is for you, it’s best to consider the pros and cons of rebuilding.
Pros of Rebuilding
- It is cheaper than replacing an engine, especially a Mercedes.
- Rebuilt engines use existing functioning parts and only replace faulty components, maintaining or extending their lifespan.
- It may help experts address other potential problems with new or existing components in the engine.
Cons of Rebuilding
- Auto shops may replace the faulty parts from a salvage yard to save money instead of high-quality OEM replacement parts.
- Mixing components from different manufacturers for replacement might limit the engine’s lifespan.
- A warranty might not be offered for rebuilding, which will not assure you of its longevity and performance.
Replacing a Mercedes Engine
Replacing an engine is done by taking out the failing engine and replacing it with a completely new one. Replacing a machine, while costly, might be the best option if it has sustained severe damage. It is also the best choice for older Mercedes models, as original parts and components may be difficult to source for replacement.
While the cost of replacing an engine might seem intimidating, sometimes it will cost you almost the same as rebuilding various damaged parts of an engine. It is the most cost-effective option in the long run, especially for older vehicles. Consider the pros and cons of engine replacement below.
Pros of Replacing
- It increases the longevity and reliability of the vehicle as a whole.
- It saves you in repair and replacement costs for belts, filters, hoses, and coolant.
- Replaced engines in a vehicle offer better resale value.
- Boosts your vehicle’s performance, especially if it’s an older vehicle.
Cons of Replacing
- Replacing a Mercedes engine can be costly, even if replaced with a refurbished engine.
- In more damaged cases, the cost of replacing is similar to the cost of buying a brand-new vehicle.
- Improper installation can damage your car with transmission problems and more.
- Unlike rebuilt engines, replacing them with a new engine may cause connection issues with your vehicle.
Making the Decision
Deciding between replacing an engine or rebuilding it can be challenging. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, as each Mercedes user knows what’s best for their vehicle at the end of the day. Both are great options once you outweigh their respective pros and cons.
Remember to not only base the decision on the engine condition. No matter how severe the damage is, remember to factor in other aspects of the vehicle, like the car’s age and the condition of other Mercedes auto parts like its transmission or muffler.
The bottom line is to be knowledgeable about the choices offered, and if you are hesitant, reach out to experts or anyone you trust in the decision-making. What is best for you might not be the best for your vehicle in the long run; make informed decisions to save your car, money, time, and effort.
Looking for a reliable auto parts store in Malaysia?
Are you looking for a reliable auto parts store to replace or rebuild your Mercedes engine? Fret not with Sun Eng Hup, one of Malaysia’s largest used and new automotive replacement part companies. You can trust us as we specialise in used and new auto parts, offering you a wide range of options that cover replacement, rebuilt, remanufactured, and used parts with a warranty.
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