The 1999 VW Bug I own kept overheating. It won't hold compression to keep running. Mechanic says needs new engine. Worth it to fix?
I kind of depends on how you feel about it-did he tell you what the compression readings were? Are they all low, or just one cylinder? Is the reason top end (valves) or rings (bottom end)-he should know these numbers and why if he is recommending engine replacement. you don't say how many miles, and you know the car's maintenance history, but if regular oil changes have not been done, if it has been badly overheated, it may be the only thing you can do. A second opinion never hurts especially if he cannot say what compression numbers are, or if the valves or rings are the cause of low compression.
And it depends on the cost-a used engine can be installed, but you have to decide if it is worth the cost of the engine, installation and down time. Consider the value of your car-you can go onto used car websites and get a valuation number for your car by plugging in condition, miles, etc to determine it's worth. Subtract from that number the cost of installing a new engine and you have an idea of what your car is worth right now-probably not alot as I'd guess the cost of a used engine and installation would run from a low of $1200 to as much as $2000 and your car is worth about $3-3500. You could buy an inexpensive car to get you by while you look for a good used engine, and locate a shop to do the install, then sell the beater car when you are back on the road with your Beetle.
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