Repair or ride till it dies & get new engine?
 

Hey guys,
I have a honda Accord and I would like some advise on what to do or what you would do in this situation. Thanks!
2001 Honda Accord 4 cy. 2.3, 179k miles, check engine light is on reading p0304 misfire code on cylinder 4. Compression test on all cylinders reads 60 on cylinder 4, 150 on cylinder 2 and 180 on 1 & 3. I put oil in the cylinders and the compression did not go up after doing another compression test so I am assuming the valves are sticking, burnt, etc.. The check engine light starts flashing at idle and goes solid when driving so my catalytic converter may be getting damaged. I use the car for work so I drive it everyday.
My question is: Basically what is the smartest & cheapest option here. I am a decent mechanic so I could potentially take the head off and take it in to get a valve job, but is it worth it considering the mileage? Should I drive it till it dies and just buy a new engine and have it swapped? Thanks for your help.

I have a 94 Ex w/ 245K miles that gets 28 mpg on a 36 mile round trip commute. These engines are very good, if maintenance is done.

A head rebuild will cost $250-$300 to get valves reseated, new valve stem seals, head shaved flat, and inspected for cracks.

I like the odds your engine will be back to new condition w/ a rebuilt head and new head gasket. Unless engine has had poor maintenance or severely overheated, new head gasket should cure your problems.

Head gasket replacement is not a bad job to do. Expect 4-6 hrs to remove head and about same to install. Timing belt and balance shaft belt should be replaced w/ head since you have to remove them to access head.

good luck

I would agree with TexasHonda on this one(like normal). I would rebuild the head as its probably cheaper than a new engine and its always a risk buying a used engine because you might end up with one that has more problems than your current one.