Things to Consider When Overhauling Your Car

Automotive overhaul is the process of repairing, replacing all or a large part of the car's parts, to restore the car to its best operating condition after a long period of use or after the car has been in an accident. This process requires complete disassembly of the engine, inspection, cleaning and replacement of worn, damaged parts to restore performance like new.

Car overhauls are usually performed after about 200.000 - 300.000 km or later 7 - 10 year use, depending on the condition of the vehicle and how the owner maintains it.

In the context of the strong development of the automobile industry with more than 1.5 million vehicles in circulation in Vietnam (2024), mastering knowledge about vehicle overhaul becomes more urgent than ever.

This article will provide you with comprehensive knowledge about car overhaul process, items to consider, estimated costs, how to choose a reputable garage, implementation time and important notes before, during and after the overhaul process. Understanding this information will help you make the right decision, save costs and prolong the life of your car.

What is a car overhaul and when is it needed?

Car overhaul is the process of comprehensively restoring a car engine when it has been severely damaged or severely degraded after a long period of use. Unlike normal repairs, engine overhaul requires complete disassembly of the engine, inspection, cleaning and replacement of worn and damaged parts to restore its original performance and durability. The main purpose of overhaul is to help the engine operate smoothly, powerfully and fuel-efficiently like when it was new.

Normally, the vehicle needs an engine overhaul when the following signs appear:

• The engine makes a continuous noise during operation (piston pin has fluid, connecting rod bearing).
• The engine consumes coolant and heats up quickly.
• Car is hard to start, black smoke, can't accelerate.
• Abnormal loss of lubricating oil, fuel and coolant.
• Engine power is significantly reduced.
• There is a strange noise coming from the engine.

For older vehicles, the average engine life is about 5-7 years. After about 60.000 to 80.000 km, most engines will have problems. However, the recommended time for an engine overhaul is usually after about 200.000 - 300.000 km or after 7-10 years of use.

What is the car overhaul process?

The car overhaul process is a complex process consisting of many steps from vehicle reception, inspection, disassembly, repair, replacement to assembly and inspection after overhaul.

1. Steps in the overhaul process

The standard car engine overhaul process includes the following steps:

• General inspection: The technician checks the entire vehicle, including the engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical system, and other components.
• Disassembly of Parts: Parts requiring overhaul will be disassembled for detailed inspection.
• Cleaning and Inspection: Parts are thoroughly cleaned and inspected to determine the extent of damage.
• Repair or replace: Damaged parts will be repaired or replaced with new spare parts.
• Assembly and testing: Parts are reassembled and tested for operation.
• Final Inspection: The vehicle undergoes a final general inspection to ensure stable and safe operation.

2. In-depth overhaul items

When performing a car overhaul, technicians need to inspect and replace many specialized items, including:

• Engine overhaul: Includes inspection, repair, or replacement of pistons, rings, valves, crankshaft, and other components. During this process, technicians will take precise measurements to ensure piston clearances, valve clearances, and compression pressures are within acceptable ranges.
• Transmission Overhaul: Includes inspection, repair, or replacement of clutches, gears, solenoids, and other components. Automatic transmissions often require inspection and replacement of transmission fluid, oil filters, and sensors.
• Suspension Overhaul: Includes inspection, repair or replacement of springs, shock absorbers, tie rods, and other components. The suspension system directly affects the vehicle's controllability and ride comfort.
• Brake System Overhaul: Includes inspection, repair or replacement of brake pads, brake discs, brake lines, and other components. The brake system is a top safety factor, so it needs to be inspected and maintained regularly.
• Electrical System Overhaul: Includes testing, repairing, or replacing the battery, alternator, wiring, and other components. The electrical system provides power to the vehicle's electronic equipment, including the lighting system, climate control system, and entertainment system.

How are car overhaul costs calculated?

The cost of a car overhaul is an important factor that car owners need to consider before deciding to overhaul. This cost depends on many different factors and can vary significantly depending on the condition of the car and the repair shop.

The cost of car engine overhaul is affected by many different factors:

• Vehicle Type: Luxury cars typically cost more to repair than regular cars.
• Damage level: The more severe the damage, the higher the cost of overhaul.
• Replacement parts prices: Genuine parts are often more expensive than replacement parts.
• Labor costs: Labor costs at reputable garages are often higher.

Reference price list and calculation:

Calculation: Overhaul cost = Spare parts cost + Labor cost.

note: This price list is for reference only, each garage in different markets will have different car engine overhaul prices, depending on actual conditions.

What to note to choose a reputable car repair garage?

To choose a reputable auto repair garage, you need to evaluate criteria such as experience, equipment, spare parts, warranty and customer feedback. You should search for information on the internet, consult with acquaintances, go directly to the garage and ask specific questions to evaluate the quality of service.

1. Criteria for evaluating reputable garages

To evaluate a reputable auto garage, you need to consider the following criteria:

• Experience and expertise: The garage has a team of highly experienced and specialized technicians.
• Modern equipment: The garage is fully equipped with modern testing and repair equipment.
• Genuine spare parts: The garage uses genuine spare parts or replacement parts of equivalent quality.
• Warranty policy: The garage has a clear and reputable warranty policy.
• Customer feedback: The garage has many positive customer reviews.

2. How to find garage reviews

To find and evaluate a reputable auto garage, you can follow these steps:

• Search the internet: Search the internet for information about auto repair shops and read customer reviews.
• Consult with acquaintances: Consult with friends, relatives, or colleagues who have experience with car overhauls.
• Go directly to the garage: Go directly to the garage to observe the facilities, equipment, and service attitude of the staff.
• Check the operating license: Make sure the garage has a legal operating license.

3. Questions to ask the garage

When looking for an auto repair shop, you should ask the following questions to assess the quality and reliability of the shop:

• Does the garage have experience overhauling engines for your vehicle line?
• Does the garage use genuine parts or replacement parts?
• Does the garage have a warranty after the overhaul? How long is the warranty period?
• What is the garage's overhaul process like? Can I visit the repair shop?
• How much does an overhaul cost? Are there any additional costs?
• How long does it take to complete the overhaul?
• Does the garage provide a detailed report of the parts replaced?

What are the spare parts for car overhaul?

Spare parts are an important factor in the process of car overhaul. Choosing the right spare parts will directly affect the performance and life of the car after overhaul.

1. Spare parts classification

Spare parts for car overhaul can be classified into the following groups:

• Genuine spare parts: Provided by the vehicle manufacturer, ensuring the highest quality and durability.
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) spare parts: Provided by the original spare parts manufacturer, with quality equivalent to genuine spare parts.
• Replacement parts: Made from independent manufacturers, they are cheaper but of inconsistent quality.

2. How to choose the right spare parts

When choosing replacement parts for your car overhaul, you should consider the following factors:

• Genuine or OEM spare parts preferred: Ensures highest quality and durability.
• Check specifications: Make sure the part fits your vehicle type and model.
• Choose a reputable supplier: Avoid buying fake or poor quality goods.
• Consult a technician: Get expert advice on the right spare part.

3. Check spare parts before replacement

Before replacing spare parts, you should check carefully to ensure quality:

• Visual inspection: Make sure the parts are not dented, scratched, or rusted.
• Check Specifications: Compare the part specifications with the vehicle specifications.
• Check labels and origin: Make sure the spare parts have clear origin and complete labels.

How long does it take to overhaul a car?

Car overhaul time can take anywhere from 1-14 days depending on many factors, including the extent of damage, the type of vehicle, and the skill of the technician.

1. Factors affecting time

The time it takes to overhaul a car depends on many factors, including:

• Damage level: The more severe the damage, the longer the overhaul time.
• Vehicle Type: Luxury cars typically have longer overhaul times than regular cars.
• Technician Skill: Highly skilled technicians usually work faster.
• Number of spare parts to be replaced: The more spare parts that need to be replaced, the longer the overhaul time.

2. Average time for each category

Below are the average times for each overhaul category:

Note: The above time is for reference only and may vary depending on the specific factors of each case.

3. How to track progress

To track the progress of your car overhaul, you can follow these steps:

• Ask the garage to provide construction progress information: The garage should provide regular construction progress information.
• Go to the garage to check directly: Go to the garage to observe the construction progress and discuss with the technician.
• Ask the garage to notify you of any additional costs or time.

What to note when overhauling a car?

Car overhaul is a complicated and expensive process. To ensure the overhaul process goes smoothly and effectively, you need to pay attention to 3 important points before, during and after the overhaul.

1. Before overhaul

Before deciding to overhaul your car, you should note the following points:

• Choose a reputable garage: Carefully research information about the garage and consult with acquaintances.
• Agree on cost and time: Agree clearly on the cost and time of the overhaul with the garage.
• Ask the garage to make a list of items needing repair: Make sure all items needing repair are noted.
• Take photos or videos of the vehicle's condition: Record the vehicle's condition before the overhaul for future reference.

2. During the overhaul

During the car overhaul process, you should note the following points:

• Monitor construction progress: Regularly contact the garage to grasp the construction progress.
• Check replacement parts: Make sure the replacement parts are genuine or of equivalent quality.
• Talk to the technician: Ask clearly about the problems that arise and how to handle them.

3. After overhaul

After overhauling your car, you should note the following points:

• Thoroughly inspect the vehicle: Double check all items that have been repaired or replaced.
• Test drive: Test drive the vehicle to check the operation of the systems.
• Ask the garage for a warranty: Make sure there is a warranty for the overhauled items.
• Keep receipts and related documents: Keep all documents related to the overhaul process.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does a car overhaul affect the resale value of the car?

Yes. Properly overhauling your car will help it perform better, increase its reliability and therefore increase its resale value. However, improperly overhauling or using poor quality parts can negatively impact the value of your car.

2. Is there a warranty period for car overhaul?

Car overhauls usually come with a warranty, depending on the garage's policy. The typical warranty period is 6 months to 1 year for overhaul work and 3 months to 1 year for replacement parts.

However, warranty periods may vary depending on the type of work and parts. You should discuss the warranty policy with the garage before deciding to overhaul.

3. How to extend the life of the vehicle after overhaul?

To extend the life of your vehicle after overhaul, you can take the following measures:

• Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance as scheduled by the manufacturer to maintain the performance and longevity of your vehicle.
• Change oil on time: Change engine oil on time to ensure the engine is well lubricated and running efficiently.
• Check and replace filters: Check and replace filters (air filter, oil filter, fuel filter) periodically to ensure good engine performance.
• Drive properly: Avoid speeding, sudden acceleration, or hard braking to reduce stress on the engine and other components.
• Use quality fuel and oil: Use good quality fuel and oil to ensure efficient engine operation and long life.

4. What should be noted when overhauling a car's gearbox?

when the car transmission overhaul, you should note the following points:

• Choose a reputable garage.
• Use genuine spare parts.
• Check carefully after overhaul.
• Run the gearbox.
• Change gearbox oil on time. See product now: Castrol ATF DEX III automatic transmission oil Genuine, best price.

5. How much does it cost to overhaul a car engine?

Billing car engine overhaul Depending on the type of vehicle, the extent of damage, and the price of spare parts, it usually ranges from 10.000.000 to 30.000.000 VND.

6. Which garage does professional, cheap car overhaul in HCM?

Thanh Phong Auto has affirmed its position as one of the leading garages in Ho Chi Minh City, specializing in providing comprehensive and high-quality car overhaul services. With a team of skilled and experienced technicians and modern equipment, we are committed to bringing absolute satisfaction to all customers.

Outstanding advantages when choosing Thanh Phong Auto:

• Team of specialized technicians.
• Modern equipment.
• Genuine spare parts, high quality.
• Transparent and clear overhaul process.
• Dedicated customer service.

Main overhaul services at Thanh Phong Auto:

• Engine Overhaul: Fixes problems such as weak engine, oil loss, strange noises, ensuring smooth and efficient engine operation.
• Transmission Overhaul: Repair and restore automatic and manual transmissions, addressing issues such as difficult shifting, jerking, or noise when shifting.
• Overhaul suspension system: Check and replace damaged parts such as shock absorbers, springs, tie rods to ensure the vehicle operates stably and smoothly.
• Overhaul brake system: Check and replace brake pads, brake discs, and brake calipers to ensure the brake system operates safely and effectively.
• Overhaul power system: Fix problems related to the vehicle's electrical system, ensuring stable operation.

With Formula "Reputation creates brand“, Thanh Phong Auto is committed to providing customers with high quality car repair services, reasonable prices and absolute satisfaction.