A car engine is worth $50 to $400 as pure scrap metal, depending on its size and material composition. However, a running or rebuildable engine is worth $500 to $2,000 or more as a used part. The condition determines whether your engine has scrap value or resale value.
Engine values by condition:
- Running engine (tested good): $500 to $2,500
- Rebuildable core (seized, needs work): $200 to $800
- Scrap engine (cracked block, junk): $50 to $400
Scrap value by engine type:
- 4-cylinder aluminum block: $30 to $75
- V6 aluminum block: $50 to $125
- V8 aluminum block: $75 to $200
- Cast iron block (any size): $75 to $400
Cast iron engines weigh more and bring higher scrap prices. Aluminum engines are lighter but aluminum prices per pound are higher than steel. The math roughly evens out, with larger engines always worth more due to greater material content.
Engines from popular vehicles have strong resale demand. A working 5.3L V8 from a Chevrolet Silverado or a 2.4L 4-cylinder from a Honda Accord sells quickly to rebuilders and repair shops. Engines from rare or unpopular vehicles may only bring scrap value regardless of condition.
If your car has a good engine but major body damage, mention it when getting quotes. Junk car buyers pay more for vehicles with valuable drivetrains. Learn what transmissions are worth to understand your car’s complete drivetrain value.
