Is it worth it to put a new engine in my 2003 VW TDI?

[Idontknowcrap]

White smoke out of the exhaust and a week in the shop later, I am being told the engine needs to be replaced. It is going to cost me $3500. It currently has 250000 miles on it. Should I look for a new car or replace the engine.

 

[Poor King]

Did they say why it was smoking?

 

[Idontknowcrap]

I'm not very car smart. I was told it could be a valve seals that would cost me $850. If it is not that it is the piston rings.

 

[csstevej]

I’d find a new shop that specializes in TDI’s.
Did they give you in writing what they did to come to this conclusion ?

Here is a list from state to state of the gurus and trusted mechanics.....
might be your worth to give the closest one a call.......got nothing to loose.

Trusted TDI Mechanics - By State

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[drucifer]

Evaluate the rest of the car and report back. Ask shop how much for r and r on engine and how much their sourced engine is. Engines can be sourced from Europe for under 1k delivered.
By evaluate I mean does the car have working heat and ac. Body condition and any rust issues. Transmission condition and was the suspension ever rebuilt.
How much do nice examples go for in your area.?

 

[Mongler98]

With what engine would it be replaced with for that price? A used good engine or is this a new engine replacment with no miles?
Did it run when before? Does it run now?
Blue white smoke? Grey white smoke? Or white white smoke?
At that price or even a little less, it's a total loss and I would move on. If you knew or had the energy to attempt a engine swap, it would be about a grand, maybe a little less.

My advice ( like others) go to a tdi specialist. Avoid any shops that are generic or dealerships. Your car is too old to be handled in that way.

 

[Powder Hound]

At that price or even a little less, it's a total loss and I would move on.

That's probably just what the garage is hoping for. I know a shop in my {former] home town that does a lot of dismantling and sourcing of parts for Audis and VWs. They will provide a running TDI (ALH - what you need of course) engine for $350 plus shipping. Or, if you can find a real TDI mechanic that won't try and scare you out of your car. Lots of good info above.

Good luck, and don't let them steamroll you.

Cheers,

PH[/quote]