We supply engines in exchange: we fit you a reconditioned engine and keep your old unit as the core. Whether your old engine is still suitable for reconditioning determines whether a surcharge applies. Here is what matters.
When Is an Engine No Longer Suitable for Reconditioning?
An engine is considered unsuitable for reconditioning if it:
- shows cracks or fractures
- has sheared valves
- has been assembled from defective parts
When Is an Engine Usually Still Suitable?
As a rule, engines are still suitable for reconditioning if they:
- still run but suffer from high oil consumption
- show low compression
Engines with high oil consumption in particular – such as the well-known 1.8/2.0 TFSI units – can almost always still be saved. Engine damage therefore does not automatically mean that your core is worthless.
How Do We Determine Reconditioning Suitability?
We inspect your engine as soon as it has been removed and inform you if it cannot be reconditioned. For engines sent to us, we produce a report with photographs of the damage where reconditioning is not possible – so you can see exactly what the surcharge is based on.
However, we can only give a definitive assessment once the engine has been opened. Only then does the full extent of the damage become visible.
What Does an Unsuitable Core Cost?
The surcharge depends on the individual engine. Prices are listed with the respective engines. We are also happy to prepare a quotation setting out any additional costs from the outset.
Not sure whether your engine can still be reconditioned? Send us the VIN or engine code – we will assess it for you.

