Purchasing an inexpensive new VW engine from AliExpress can be alluring... but also risky.

      AliExpress is an e-commerce platform that closely resembles Amazon, offering a wide range of products that vary from ordinary to utterly bizarre. A quick glance at its homepage showcases deals on fairly standard items such as gaming accessories, tools, and jewelry, many of which are surprisingly inexpensive. However, there are also some unusual products available, such as entire Volkswagen engines. It's important to exercise caution when purchasing these, as highlighted in a recent YouTube video by DAP DIY, which points out that these engines may not be as expected.

      There is a large variety of engines available on AliExpress, but the Volkswagen options primarily consist of versions from the EA888 platform, which range from 1.8 to 2.0 liters and have powered everything from basic VW Polos to Golf GTIs and even Audis. While some of these engines were factory turbocharged, the ones on AliExpress do not appear to include turbos; they consist only of the assembled top and bottom ends. According to DAP DIY, these engines are mostly surplus from Chinese VW factories that were not used in production but have found their way onto the market, with prices ranging from $1,645 to $5,366. If you're considering purchasing one for a project that involves fitting a GTI engine, be aware that it may differ significantly from the EA888 engines you are familiar with.

      Volkswagen produced various EA888 versions for different vehicles and markets, which can result in considerable internal differences. For instance, the more basic versions feature cast crankshafts, which suffice for economy vehicles with lower power outputs, while performance models like the GTI and Golf R utilize much stronger forged crankshafts. Although it’s possible that the engine you buy might feature more robust components, there’s no guarantee. Be prepared to take a risk, as the engine may not meet your requirements.

      That said, the engines available on AliExpress aren't without value. Some come equipped with forged crankshafts and stronger internals, making them suitable for high-performance applications. Even if they lack these features, they can still be valuable for their blocks or cylinder heads. If you intended to replace the crank, pistons, cams, valves, and other components, these engines can be a cost-effective option for acquiring a new bottom end. However, at that stage, it might be more advantageous to seek out a wrecked, low-mileage GTI and extract the engine from there.