My 2003 Civic EX sedan with 180k just blew an engine. Almost sure of it. Been a great car, but the temp went up, a few miles later heard bad sounds form under the hood. Smoky, burning smell emanating up. Just made it to my mechanic. Will look at it Monday, but if the engine is gone said a used engine is $2500 for parts and labor. Mechanic is honest, but I just wanted to ask you guys. That a decent price? I've seen used engines on eBay for $700 or so. If I sold it with the bad engine, what's it worth? $1,000? I like Hondas and might be interested in buying another, but they are going for $4,000-$5,000 on a similar model.

Update: mechanic said there are no coolant leaks, but it lost a gallon and a half of coolant today since I topped it off (I only had to put in a few ounces). Said the coolant got into the engine and the engine is ruined. Stuck to the $2500 tag. Said the engine would be between $1200 and $1600 for an engine around 100k miles. Labor is 10-12 hrs. I haven't done anything yet. I did drive it home. Drives OK, but the engine doesn't sound right.

What should I do?

 

The price of the engine sounds a little high, but the labor time seems quite high. Used engines can have a limited warranty period, if it fails within a certain time period, they engine seller may cover the price of the labor second time around. On my old 97 HX, I decided to get it rebuilt. The first rebuilt engine was burning oil. They cover the cost labor and rebuild the engine the second time around.

Shop around!! It could only need a new head and gasket.

 

I have a complete 2003 civic si that has minor damage to the fender and needs clutch
I have title Someone tried to steal car by digging out the ignition key tumbler wont start because key communicates to the brain
$2000 for the car plus hauling expenses
316 883 2895