Chi013

So I have a 2005 TC that's never had issues until yesterday when my engine blew on i35.

I need to fix it ASAP but can't pay crazy dealership prices rn so I'm looking for a used but good condition motor. I was hoping someone here would know the best way to go about buying one bc this is the first time something like this happens to me and I know next to nothing about car parts...please help a sista out!

Please don't say 'eBay' bc I've checked it out...I'm looking for something under 1k

Anyone here selling their engine pls pm me...I also welcome any helpful suggestions

criminaltc

Check your other thread too. I posted in there. Under a thousand is not going to happen. Especially after installation because you clearly aren't doing this yourself. It's going to be some coin, "sista".

draxcaliber

Yeah, you're looking at around 3-4 grand for a motor swap with parts and labor.

steezie

agreed^ sometimes you can find a motor for like 2k but still have to think for install.

bbsciontc

Search car-part.com for a used motor from a junk yard. You'll still have to arrange delivery and installation. That will be your best deal on a used engine.

Chi013

Thanks criminaltc, I checked and posted on the other thread.

bbsciontc, I've done a quick check on that site thanx to you but haven't found anything under TC in my price range. I'll keep looking there via other vehicles which share my 2AZFE to see if I find anything affordable to me. I appreciate it.

draxcaliber and steezie, I got lucky enough to locate a motor nearby for $650 (Corolla XRS) while the guy who's currently set to fix my TC found one at $900 (supposedly 40K miles w/1yr warranty as long as engine doesn't overheat...though I'm not sure if he's implying more to this than basic maintenance?). I think it might be a location thing since my area's got a lot of mom&pop shops which offer cheap parts and labor...

Thing is, these are obviously junkyard engines and may not compare in quality to a motor which has been inspected and tested like those offered online, but is all I can afford for the time being so I'd like to ask if anyone here knows what physical qualities to check for when buying or any tips on making sure I'm not landing a lemon.

Also, is there anyone here who knows how to figure out the true mileage of an engine?

So far all I know is to check the VIN#'s history but any way I can physically verify it myself? I'm willing to buy a tool if need be to do this.

Again, any useful input is welcome. Thx for all your responses guys.

criminaltc

Alright, stick to one thread. Just go to that other one. You don't want to hop back and forth. That's going to be get annoying.

Jonny5ive

Chi,
Where are you located? I know a guy that had to rebuild his motor twice. Hes in OKC maybe I can see where he got his parts from and if you are close enough maybe you can get it from the same place.