My '92 Honda Civic Hatchback which I maintained in excellent condition throughout its 167.500 miles began to steam and the engine quit. Apparently the radiator failed, the engine overheated,, and the head gasket is blown out. Further damage may exist underneath on the cast-iron bottom part of the engine, but the mechanics will need to take the engine apart (cost $400-$500) to investigate and diagnose the damage.

The worse case scenario is a rebuilt or replaced engine at a cost of ??? The best case scenario is a new radiator and head gasket.

Right now the car has an engine and is towable, so I can donate it.

Without an engine, even the charities do not want it.

Do you have any points to ponder, or advice regarding my analysis on whether to repair or replace.

 

If kept driving until the engine absolutely would go no more due to overheating, it is toast; don't spend money taking it apart. Used engines should be around in the $500 range.

 

I agree with mk; rebuilding an engine is never a guarantee of complete resolution of the problem. I would base my decision as to whether I have a used engine installed on how new other components are. If many of the components also have 167,500 miles on them (suspension, radiator, etc), then I would move on to something else and scrap the car. However, if you've already replaced quite a few expensive things, then a used engine (still a gamble of sorts) may be the way to go. I know how tough it is to move on, especially if I owned a car for many years.