While regular engine maintenance will help ensure that your engine always performs at peak conditions, there are also signs you can look for that indicate an engine repair service is needed:

• "Check engine" or "engine service" light is on
• Slow-cranking, rough idling, stalling, knocking, or pinging while accelerating
• Jerking or being jostled
• Smoke from under the hood

Proper maintenance will greatly increase the life of your engine and save you money in the long run. Start with your car manual’s suggested services. Often these will include regular oil changes, tune-ups, fluid flushes, and belt checks.

Engine Repair: Fixes specific, isolated problems without a complete engine teardown

• Minor Problems: Engine repair is ideal for small, isolated issues
• Cost-Effective: It is typically less expensive than a full engine rebuild or replacement
• Extending Vehicle Life: By addressing problems promptly, repair can prevent further damage and extend the life of the engine

Engine Replacement: When a repair might not be enough - involves completely disassembling the engine to inspect and replace multiple worn-out parts, then reassembling it to factory specifications

• Significant Damage:If the engine has suffered widespread damage or has many worn-out parts, a full rebuild or even a complete replacement may be necessary 
• High Mileage:For high-mileage vehicles, replacing the entire engine might be a more practical long-term solution than repeatedly repairing a worn-out engine

Engine Rebuild: An engine replacement, while often more expensive, is faster and comes with less labor

• Engine is completely failed: If the engine has experienced severe damage, such as metal shavings in the oil, replacement is often more practical than a rebuild
• Time and urgency are factors: Replacement is a quicker option because it requires less labor than a comprehensive rebuild
• You prioritize convenience: Replacement can be a more straightforward and less labor-intensive process
• You want a warranty: Replaced engines, especially new or remanufactured ones, often come with a warranty, providing more peace of mind
• Vehicle is new or in excellent condition: A replacement engine can be a wise investment for a newer car or one in otherwise excellent condition