Affordable Used Acura Engines: Best Deals & Trusted Sources

Buying a used engine is sketchy territory if you don’t know where to look. One wrong move and you’re out hundreds, maybe even thousands, for a crate of trouble. But the truth? There are solid deals out there. Engines that still run like a champ, from sellers who don’t ghost you the second you hand over cash.

Stick around and we’ll break down where to find these deals, what to check before buying, and how to make sure you’re not signing up for a headache.

Guide to Check Used Acura engines

1. Look at the basics first

Check the exterior. Oil leaks? Rust? Cracks? If it looks like it’s been ignored for years, it probably has been. Engine blocks should be clean, but not spotless like someone just wiped it down for sale. That can hide issues.

2. Check the timing belt/chain

Acura engines, especially older ones, are picky about timing belts. If it’s a belt engine, find out when it was last changed. Chains are more forgiving but still inspect for slack or weird wear. A skipped belt or stretched chain = major headache.

3. Compression test

This one is key. You want even compression across all cylinders. Numbers that are all over the place? Red flag. Low compression = worn rings, valves, or head gasket trouble.

4. Listen and smell

Crank it if you can. Knocky noises? Grinding? Smoke? Weird smells? Any of that is trouble. Burning oil or coolant smells mean it’s been run hard or has leaks.

5. Check the oil

Don’t just glance at the dipstick. Smell it, look at it. Milky oil = water in there. Sludgy oil = neglect. Both are bad news.

6. Look under the engine

Check for leaks around the oil pan, valve cover, and head gasket. If it’s covered in grime or fresh sealant, ask questions. Sometimes people hide problems with silicone and paint.

7. Check the ECU / electronics (if you can)

Some engines are smart and need a compatible ECU. Make sure the wiring harness matches and that sensors aren’t fried.

8. Ask for history

Where did it come from? How many miles? Was it in an accident? Salvage titles aren’t automatically dealbreakers, but you want the full story.

9. Get it inspected if possible

Even if you’re buying online or out of state, get a local mechanic to take a look. They’ll notice stuff you might miss.

10. Price vs risk

Finally, think about cost. A cheap engine that needs work can cost way more than a slightly pricier one that’s solid. Don’t chase bargains blindly.

Tips to Buy Acura Used Engines

1. Know your exact engine code

Don’t just say “I need a TSX engine” or “an MDX V6.” Acura has a ton of variations. K24, J35, B20, whatever. Get the code off your old engine or your VIN. Mismatched engines = regret. Trust me.

2. Check the mileage

Yeah, used engines aren’t new, duh. However, some engines are beyond repair. Look for engines under 100k if possible. Over 150k? That’s a gamble unless it’s been rebuilt. Ask for service records. No receipts, move on.

3. Inspect the basics yourself

Pictures are great, but if you can, see it in person. Check for leaks, rust, cracked mounts, weird noises if they’ll crank it. Also smell it. Burnt oil smell? Red flag. Coolant all over the place? Red flag.

4. Know the seller

Craigslist, eBay, Facebook Marketplace—fine. But your best bet? Salvage yards or reputable engine rebuilders. They usually guarantee the engine for a short period. Private sellers might be cheaper, but no warranty = headache if it blows up next week.

5. Don’t skip compatibility checks

Even if the engine matches, some parts won’t. Wiring harnesses, ECU, sensors, mounts—they can differ year to year. Ask specifically if the engine is “plug-and-play” for your model year. Saves a ton of swapping and cursing later.

How to Buy Used Acura Engine with Car Engine Guru?

Know what you need

Don’t just say “I need an Acura engine.” Figure out the year, model, and engine type. LS, TSX, MDX—each one is different. You’ll save yourself a headache later. Write it down. Exact details.

Hit up CarEngineGuru.com

Go to the site. Don’t overthink it. They’ve got a search bar. Type your engine type or your car’s VIN if you want to be super precise.

Filter like a maniac

Use the filters. Mileage, condition, location, price. Check the boxes that actually matter to you. Don’t just scroll mindlessly. This part can save you from buying a total lemon.

Check the details

Click on the engine listing. Read everything. Mileage, any rebuild notes, warranty info if there is any. Look for pics if they’re provided. If it looks sketchy—move on.

Compare a few options

Don’t buy the first one. Look at 2-3 engines, compare prices, mileage, and seller reputation. Sometimes a little extra cash saves you from a huge headache.

Ask questions

There’s usually a contact button. Ask straight up: “Has this been tested? Any leaks? Comes with accessories?” Don’t feel dumb for asking. You want to know what you’re getting.

Check shipping and return policy

Engines are heavy, expensive, and fragile. Make sure they ship safely and have a return policy. Don’t skip this.

Buy it

Once you’re sure, hit that buy button. Use PayPal or a credit card, if possible, for buyer protection.