when should we bring a professional to small claims court?

First, the Small Claims Limit is $7,500 in Califiornia. That said, you could bring an action against both the auto yard and the mechanic.

If the auto yard warrantied the engine for 90 days, they have to honor that warranty even if the company from who they purchased the engine is out of business. If the business was merely sold, the new owner of that business has to honor that warranty with the auto yeard. However, if the auto yard merely said, so and so provides a 90 day warranty, then then auto yard may not be responsible, but the new owner from whom the auto yard purchased the engine may be responsible. An attorney should review your purchase order invoice.

As to the mechanic the question is whether the mechanic purchased the engine from the auto yard on your behalf and if the mechanic should have known sooner that the engine had a problem. More information is therefore needed to answer your question.

Disclaimer. The information posted above is for general information, does not constitute professional legal advice, and does not create an attorney client relationship.