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So I got a used EX cheap several years back with around 139k miles on it. Noticed a slight knock in the engine even during the test drive, but figured I could probably get a few years out of it at least and the price was right. Sure thing, it worked great for about three years. Clearly, there is/was a coolant leak somewhere and the antifreeze needed replenishing usually every four or five months or so. Engine also seemed to burn oil. Never had the oil light come on, but knew exactly when it was low because the slight knock(usually at between 3,000 and 3,500 RPMs only) would get worse. No issues. Keep more oil in the car. At any rate, made the really bad decision to not change the oil when the service light went on. Just kept topping off the oil. The day after one of these top-offs, the knock got real bad after I got off the highway. Pulled over and the oil was basically empty. Refilled, but I'm 99 percent certain it was too late. Car still starts up --had to move it in my driveway --but it's bad.

I'm at 187k miles and the car body is in pretty good shape. It's a standard and TBH, I've kind of got a soft spot in my heart for it. I've seen 1.8L engines on eBay with 120k miles on them for sale for $600 and had a reputable mechanic give me a quote to swap at $1,200. So a number of questions here:

1. This is the easiest question: Any chance this engine is salvageable? I'm assuming no. But who knows?

2. Is it worth it to swap out said engine for a used on? Scanning through the forum, sounds like this generation of Honda has its share of problems, including manufacturing defects and poor seals. And my previous Civic(2005 LX) could attest to this since it had head gasket issues.

3. If I DO decide to do the swap, should I replace the transmission too? The mechanic suggested I do, considering the miles on the car and that it would add only a couple hundred more to the cost. It's not that I'd WANT to pay extra. But if I could get this car running for another three years or so for under $3,000, it might be worth it.

At any rate, thanks in advance for any advice y'all can provide.

 
Rep Power: 222

Buying a used engine is most likely cheaper than rebuilding the current one, especially since you said you're losing coolant, so you might have the block cracking issue these cars had. As for the trans, it's probably fine especially if you're an experienced standard driver. I'd throw a new clutch in though. Make sure the new engine has warranty of some sort. Could also check with local yards and rock auto for better price/warranty

 
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It's hard to argue with sentimentality. If you love the car, it's worth it to you.

 
Rep Power: 229

Check you're cars value. If it's worth more than $3000 in your area then yes its worth the swap.

$3000 = engine, labour, other issues, import fees, tax.

If not, then just buy another car and sell yours "as is".