The Difference Between Remanufactured and Reconditioned Engines

The terms ‘remanufacturing’ and ‘reconditioning’ of vehicle engines are often confused in the motor industry, as well as by consumers. As a leading engine remanufacturer for over 50 years, this document explains the differences.

Remanufacturing and reconditioning or ‘reman engines’ and ‘recon engines’ are poles apart when it comes to the actual process involved and the resulting quality of the product.

Reconditioned Engines

A reconditioned engine is one that has been stripped down either partially or fully, cleaned and possibly had some damaged components replaced prior to being rebuilt.

Remanufactured Engines

A remanufactured or reman engine has been returned to the vehicle manufacturer’s or remanufacturers approved specifications through an extensive and audited process.

Key Features

Category Reconditioned Engines Remanufactured Engines
Description Involves taking an engine completely apart and assessing and measuring all components. Parts out of specification are then replaced. Select parts are then meticulously cleaned, inspected, measured, and tested. These are then engineered to set specifications. By using parts that are still within specification, we are able to use fewer new parts and so reduce input costs while maintaining quality standards. The engine is then reassembled by specialized technicians and tested accordingly. A remanufactured engine is the closest rebuilt engine to a new engine. It involves taking an engine completely apart and scrapping certain parts, which are then replaced with new parts. Select parts are then meticulously cleaned, inspected, measured, and tested. These are then engineered to set specifications. The engine is then reassembled by specialized technicians and tested accordingly. The final result is the engine has been returned to the OEM or remanufactured specifications.
Remtec Program Exchange Own Core Exchange Own Core
Process We supply an engine in exchange for the damaged engine We rebuild your existing engine We supply an engine in exchange for the damaged engine We rebuild your existing engine
Quote Fixed price Estimated price – subject to engine inspection Fixed price Estimated price – subject to engine inspection
Lead times Engines in stock can be shipped within 24hrs. 2 – 3 Weeks from the date of order Engines in stock can be shipped within 24hrs. 2 – 3 Weeks from the date of order
Warranty 100 000km or 12 months (whichever comes first) 12 months unlimited mileage
Shipping cost Free
Re-registration required Re-registration of your engine at traffic department required No re-registration of your engine at traffic department Re-registration of your engine at traffic department required No re-registration of your engine at traffic department