After fitting a reconditioned engine, many drivers assume their vehicle is now maintenance-free. In reality, servicing becomes even more important. Regular care ensures your engine performs reliably, avoids costly issues, and maximises the life of your investment. Here's why:
1. Protects Your Investment
Reconditioned engines aren’t cheap. Even though they’re more affordable than new engines, they still cost between £1,800 to £3,000 fully fitted. Regular servicing ensures you’re getting the maximum return on that investment by preventing premature wear and catching issues early. Think of servicing as an insurance policy for your rebuilt engine, it keeps minor issues from becoming expensive repairs.
2. Prevents Oil Degradation and Sludge Build-Up
Your reconditioned engine will have fresh oil and filters installed during fitting but oil doesn’t stay clean forever. Over time, it collects:
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Carbon deposits
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Moisture
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Contaminants from combustion
If left unchecked, this can lead to sludge build-up, which causes excessive wear on internal parts. Regularly changing oil and filters every 6,000–10,000 miles not only keeps the engine clean but also maintains optimal lubrication for all components.
3. Ensures New Parts Settle Properly
Even though parts are brand-new or re-machined, they need time to bed in. Early services (particularly within the first 1,000–2,000 miles) can spot settling issues like oil leaks, coolant loss, or loose components, preventing larger problems later.
During these initial checks, technicians can also assess the engine mounts, turbo connections (if applicable), and ensure the timing components are functioning smoothly, giving you peace of mind that everything is performing correctly.
4. Maintains Warranty Cover
Many reconditioned engines including those supplied by Approved Engines come with a 6 to 12-month warranty. One of the conditions is often that the vehicle is serviced on schedule. Skipping your service could void your warranty.
Adhering to the service schedule also demonstrates responsible ownership, which can be helpful if you ever need warranty support or a resale inspection.
What Does Regular Servicing Include?
A standard interim or full service for a vehicle with a reconditioned engine will typically include:
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Engine oil and filter change
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Coolant check and top-up or flush
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Air filter and fuel filter check
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Spark plugs or glow plugs check (for petrol or diesel)
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Timing belt inspection
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Diagnostics for early warning signs
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Visual inspection of hoses, gaskets, seals, and mounts
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Check for fluid leaks or pressure issues
At Approved Engines, our servicing is tailored to vehicles with reconditioned engines, ensuring the unique requirements of rebuilt components are addressed. We also provide optional engine health checks using advanced diagnostics to detect minor issues before they become serious problems, giving you confidence on the road.
Learn About Our Servicing Options →
How Often Should I Service a Vehicle with a Reconditioned Engine?
We recommend:
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Initial inspection at 1,000 miles after engine fitting
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Oil & filter change every 6,000–10,000 miles
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Full service every 12 months or 12,000 miles
Drivers in stop-start city traffic, towing frequently, or covering long distances may benefit from more frequent checks. Seasonal inspections are also helpful to prepare the engine for winter or summer conditions.
Long-Term Benefits of Regular Servicing
Maximised Engine Life
A reconditioned engine can last anywhere from 60,000 to 100,000+ miles but only if it’s properly maintained. Routine servicing helps extend that lifespan and avoid costly repairs. Regular servicing ensures critical components such as the water pump, turbo (if fitted), and timing components remain in top condition.
Fuel Efficiency
A poorly serviced engine consumes more fuel. Clean oil, working filters, and proper timing ensure your engine runs at peak efficiency, saving you money at the pump. Additionally, servicing helps maintain correct emissions, reducing environmental impact and keeping your vehicle compliant with UK MOT standards.
Avoids Breakdowns
Regular servicing means early detection. Whether it’s a leaking gasket or a failing sensor, catching it early helps you avoid roadside breakdowns or major damage. Scheduled checks also reduce the risk of overheating and sudden power loss, which can be dangerous on busy roads or motorways.
Boosts Resale Value
Buyers are more confident in a car with documented service history, especially one with a reconditioned engine. Keeping up with your services makes your vehicle easier to sell and more valuable when the time comes. A detailed service history shows that the engine has been cared for correctly, which is particularly important for reconditioned or rebuilt engines.
What Happens If You Skip Servicing?
If you delay or skip servicing a vehicle with a reconditioned engine, you could face:
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Oil sludge build-up, leading to clogged oil channels
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Overheating, from degraded coolant or blocked radiators
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Loss of power and poor acceleration due to worn spark plugs or dirty air filters
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Premature failure of seals and gaskets
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Voided warranty, leading to out-of-pocket repairs
In extreme cases, neglecting service can cause catastrophic engine failure, effectively negating the savings from a reconditioned engine. Even minor neglect can result in reduced engine efficiency and increased fuel consumption over time.
Servicing with Approved Engines Sudbury’s Trusted Experts
Whether your reconditioned engine was fitted by us or another provider, we offer:
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Affordable, professional interim and full vehicle servicing
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Access to OEM-quality parts and fluids
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Transparent pricing and local pick-up/drop-off on request
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Fully trained technicians experienced in rebuilt and reconditioned engines
We serve customers across Sudbury, Acton, and wider Suffolk, ensuring vehicles stay in top condition year-round. Our team also provides personalised advice for each engine type, helping you understand any additional maintenance your specific model might require.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How soon should I service my car after fitting a reconditioned engine?
We recommend a first service after 1,000 miles to check everything is bedding in correctly, especially oil quality, coolant levels, and gaskets.
2. Will servicing really make my reconditioned engine last longer?
Yes! Like any engine, a reconditioned one needs clean oil, filtered air, and monitored coolant to avoid internal wear and overheating.
3. Do I need a full service or just oil changes?
Both are important. While oil changes are more frequent, a full service every 12 months helps catch deeper issues and keep components working efficiently.
4. How much does regular servicing cost?
Servicing typically costs £120–£250, depending on your vehicle and whether it’s an interim or full service. It's a small price to protect an engine worth thousands.
5. Can I service the engine myself and keep the warranty?
Not usually. Warranties on reconditioned engines often require evidence of professional servicing with approved parts and fluids. Always check the terms.
Final Thoughts
A reconditioned engine is a smart, sustainable way to give your vehicle a second life but that life depends on you taking care of it.
By booking regular servicing, you’ll:
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Maximise the lifespan of your rebuilt engine
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Improve performance and fuel efficiency
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Protect your warranty
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Avoid expensive repairs down the road
Looking after your engine starts with a simple phone call. Regular checks, high-quality oils, and professional inspections make all the difference in keeping your reconditioned engine running smoothly for years.
Contact Approved Engines today to book your next service or speak to one of our experienced technicians.
