Hi there,

My 2006 Pilot with 178K on it got an engine knock, was burning a quart of oil in less than 100 miles, and died this past October. I've been getting the money together to replace the engine, and I'm looking for advice.

There's a local mechanic who specializes in Hondas who told me to stay away from used motors. He says these motors (J35A9) have been known to have issues in 4 of the valves and that a used engine could leave me right back where I am. He recommends a reman for $5,500 installed with a 3 year unlimited mileage warranty. This guy is reputable, but I'm wondering if he's thinking of the 09-12 Pilots who had the recall. But, that warranty seems awful comforting.

My local Honda dealer said they use LKQ Online and install used engines from them all the time. They offer only a 6 month warranty. They have an engine with 159K on it for $1,418 right now. My local mechanic would charge me $1,000 for labor. So, after shipping, that would come out to around $2,600.

My Pilot interior and exterior are in incredible shape. It's a 2006, but it only looks a few years old. And I owe just over $4,000 on it from when I bought it. I really like the almost $3,000 savings of the used engine, but I'm terrified of the prospect of another one dying on me. But, I also don't want to spend $5,500 on a 12 year old vehicle that I don't intend to keep for 5 or more years.

Any mechanical expertise on the reliability of these engines? Is a used one worth the risk? Did the 06-08 engines have the same issues as the later models but just not qualify for the mass recall? Any help you can offer is much appreciated.

 

Based on the following:

• still owe over $4,000 on it
• car is 12 years old
• you don't intend to keep it for 5 or more years

the LKQ used engine may be the better choice. See if they can locate a lower mileage used engine. Afterward, regularly check the oil level and top off as necessary.

 

Here is the settlement site:
Client Settlement Site > Notice

For a used engine I would steer clear of them in that range without knowing the history on it.