Engine replacement

[JojoC]

Hello,

I have a 2014 CX-5 that has had an internal coolant leak. I'm not sure from where, I have to refill the coolant reservoir every 400 miles. I did a block test that showed negative results, a shop did a coolant pressure test and held pressure, I had the oil analyzed and the results showed coolant in the oil. The engine has significant sludge buildup, and the engine has developed a concerning noise. A loud ticking that is most evident after letting off the accelerator and RPMs are returning to idle. I replaced the VVT solenoid, but that did not fix the ticking issue. While performing the VVT solenoid replacement, I was able to see the condition of the engine under the valve cover. It made me lean towards a full engine replacement. I was wondering if anyone has advice on that process or has done it? I've contacted a few shops and they're all in the $7-9K for a replacement Jasper engine. The car is only worth $7,500 according to KBB and JD power, but I like the car and besides the engine the car is in good condition. I'm on the fence about fixing this car or buying a new one.

Thanks in advance,

Jojo

 

[N7turbo]

That is one nasty engine. That is what it looks like when oil is not changed for a long time. Or ever.

The ticking may be a HLA (Hydraulic Lash Adjuster): 2018 CX-5 GT Outer Hydraulic Lash Adjuster Knocking - Covered out of Warranty?

I was going to say that the coolant in the oil is what I would be most worried about. But that sludge...I'm not sure how to clean it out. And if any damage was done by not having proper clean oil in the engine for a period of time. The only way to find out would be to disassemble the engine and run everything through a parts cleaner, but that and reassembly would be a good amount of labor.

 

[Lazy2.5]

The inside of that engine looks horrifying.

I think... Start by cleaning out that engine. And changing your oil on time.

 

[sm1ke]

The price you were quoted for a replacement engine sounds really high.. by comparison, a brand new 2.5T engine installed by the dealership here in Canada would run like $8-9k CDN ($6.5k USD), and that includes labour.

A search on lkqonline.com shows a lot of available used engines ranging from $1400-2400, with the vast majority being around $1800 USD. Maybe see if there's a local option, or try a junkyard to source a replacement engine. There is the risk that the replacement engine could also need work, but chances are good that the replacement will at least be in better condition that the current engine.