Car owners in Spain sometimes face serious engine breakdowns. Such situations raise many questions: is replacement allowed, how cost-effective is it, what is the procedure, and how much will it cost?
In the country, installing a new or used engine is permitted, but the procedure is strictly regulated. First, a compatible model must be selected that meets technical requirements and has official certification. After installation, all changes must be documented in the vehicle’s technical passport and registration certificate. Failure to follow these steps may result in fines from road authorities.
The process includes mandatory notification of the relevant authorities, providing documents from the auto service, and passing an additional technical inspection. Only after this is the car permitted to operate with the new engine.
The cost-effectiveness of replacement depends on several factors. If the car is in good condition and the owner values it for personal reasons, replacing the engine can be justified. It’s also important to compare the total costs with the price of buying another car, either new or used. Sometimes, repair ends up being the more advantageous option.
However, in addition to the cost of the engine itself and specialist labor, there are extra expenses: a repeat inspection at the technical station, paperwork, and possible challenges with adapting the new unit. In some cases, experts do not recommend replacing the engine, especially if there is a risk of imminent failure of other components.
The cost of replacement varies depending on the make, type, and condition of the engine. A new unit costs approximately €1,500–6,000, while a used one ranges from €1,000 to €4,000. Labor fees are added to these amounts—usually from €500 to €1,500. Additional costs include paperwork and technical inspection. For premium-class cars, the final amount can be significantly higher, so it is recommended to request an estimate from the service center in advance.
The step-by-step process includes assessing whether repair is worthwhile, selecting a suitable engine, finding a certified auto service center, carrying out the work, gathering all the required documents, and passing an additional technical inspection. Only after this can the registration data be updated and the car put back into use.
