Nissan Repair: Cracked engine block, competent mechanic, honda pilot

Question
I have a 2011 Honda pilot 17k miles front collision with parked car   Originally told body work only. They poured fluids in saw water pump bad they realized engine block cracked.  Insurer wants to replace block. Is this sufficient. Friend told me block and engine are married better to replace engine.  Initially insurer was going to replace with a used engine with 10k but then were told it would void my warranty so they have to replace block   Its Greek to me but I'm scared. It's my only car and I have kids. I don't want to break down in my car suddenly. Can an engine block be replaced successfully without incident or is it better to go with an engine replacement.  I want to be Able to speak credibly about this.  Can you know an engine is undamaged. What is the engine block for? Thanks so much

Answer
Hi Yuki -

The engine block (proper term) makes up 70% of the engine. Most of the internal parts are housed in it. On top of the block, you have the cylinder heads, intake manifold, and exhaust manifold.

It takes a tremendous amount of "collision" to crack the engine block, so I would confirm that is truly so. It is made up of cast iron steel.

Since the car is relatively new, replacing just the block would be sufficient. It is a big job, so ensure you have a competent mechanic to do it. I would not settle for the cheapest guy unless you know him. It requires precision, experience, and patience.

Replacing the engine is an easier thing to do, and doing so there will be less chance of breakdown later, but if it will void the warranty, then I would stick with replacing just the block, and please confirm in doing so the warranty is still valid.

Hope this helps -
aloha
Calvin