The short answer
If an engine replacement would cost more than the car is worth running, selling as-is is usually the better deal. A car with a blown engine still has value in its transmission, body, interior and catalytic converter, and newer cars can bring well above scrap value.
A thrown rod, a seized engine or a cracked block feels like the end of a car. Financially it often is the end of keeping it, but not the end of its value.
The quick math
Compare two numbers:
- What the car would be worth running: check a used car pricing guide for its year, mileage and condition.
- What it costs to get it running: a used engine plus labor, or a rebuild. Get a written quote.
As a rough rule of thumb, if the repair costs more than about half of what the car would be worth running, selling it as-is is usually the better deal. If the car is newer, in good shape otherwise, and the repair is a fraction of its value, fixing it can make sense.
What is a car with a blown engine worth?
More than you'd think, especially if it's newer. Buyers value:
- the transmission, if it shifted fine before the engine failed
- body panels, doors, lights and glass
- the interior and electronics
- the catalytic converter
- the metal itself
An older car with a blown engine is usually priced close to its scrap value, which our scrap car prices page estimates by vehicle type. A car about six years old or newer can bring well above that, because its parts are still in demand, and one up to about ten years old can bring somewhat more. Our calculator shows the difference when you change the year.
How do you sell it as-is?
Tell the buyer exactly what happened: "it overheated and won't turn over" or "it knocks and died on the highway." You don't need a diagnosis. Say it doesn't run when our buyer partner contacts you, keep all the other parts on the car, and have the title ready.
Cash For Junk Cars 500 sends your request to our buyer partner, which buys cars in any condition and includes free towing with every offer. See your estimate first. It's free, and you can say no to any offer.
Frequently asked questions
Is a car with a blown engine worth anything?
Yes. The rest of the car still has parts and metal value. Newer cars with blown engines can be worth well above scrap.
Should I replace the engine or sell the car?
If the replacement costs more than about half of what the car would be worth running, selling as-is is usually the better deal.
Can I sell a car that won't start because of the engine?
Yes. Our buyer partner buys cars in any condition, and a flatbed can carry the car, so it doesn't need to start or roll on its own.