How Much Does a Camshaft Cost in 2025?

In 2025, a camshaft typically costs $150 to $700 for common OEM or aftermarket replacements; performance, billet, or multi-cam sets often run $700 to $1,500 or more. Installed, the total job usually ranges from $1,200 to $3,500, and can exceed $5,000 on complex DOHC engines. Actual pricing hinges on your engine architecture (pushrod vs. overhead-cam), materials (cast vs. billet), brand, and whether you’re buying a cam-only or a complete kit that includes springs, lifters, and gaskets. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you budget with confidence.

What the Part Itself Costs

Camshaft pricing varies widely because engines differ in how many cams they use, whether they have variable valve timing (VVT), and the intended performance level. Here’s what you can expect to pay for the part alone in today’s market.

• Stock replacement cam (cast iron) for common pushrod V6/V8 engines: $150–$350
• Aftermarket hydraulic-roller “street/strip” cam (e.g., GM LS, small-block Ford/Chevy): $300–$700
• DOHC sets (pair of cams for 4-cyl; two pairs for V6/V8): $400–$1,200 per set; premium European/JDM grinds can reach $1,800+
• VVT-equipped cams and phasers: camshaft $300–$800; phasers typically $150–$350 each (often replaced together)
• Billet or custom-ground performance cams: $800–$2,500+, depending on material and brand
• Motorcycle/ATV cam pairs: $150–$600
• Diesel and heavy-duty applications: $500–$1,800+
• Cam “kits” (cam plus springs, seals, sometimes lifters/pushrods/retainers): $600–$2,000+
• Regrind services (using your core): $120–$350, plus shipping; may require compatible lifters and strict break-in

Brands and suppliers (e.g., Comp Cams, Brian Tooley Racing, Kelford, Tomei, and OEM dealers) influence price, as do materials (cast vs. billet steel) and the complexity of profiles designed for modern VVT systems.

Installation Labor and Total Job Cost

Labor is the biggest variable. Shop rates in 2025 typically run $100–$200 per hour in the U.S., higher in some metro and European markets. Job time depends on whether the cam is front-accessible (pushrod) or buried under timing chains/belts and cam carriers (OHC/DOHC).

• Pushrod V8 (RWD; front cover access): 6–12 labor hours; $700–$1,800 labor; total $1,200–$3,000+
• OHC 4‑cylinder with timing belt/chain: 6–10 labor hours; $700–$1,600 labor; total $1,100–$2,600
• DOHC V6/V8 (transverse/AWD or tight bays): 10–18 labor hours; $1,200–$3,000 labor; total $1,800–$4,500+
• Engines requiring partial engine removal or cam carrier reseal: 15–25+ hours; totals often $3,500–$6,000+

Complex timing, phaser re-indexing, valve lash shimming, and ECU tuning can add time. Expect an additional $200–$800 for calibration on modern, drive-by-wire vehicles, especially with significant cam profile changes.

What Else You’ll Likely Need

Because the top end and timing system are opened during a cam job, related wear items and supporting parts are often replaced to protect your investment and ensure reliability.

• Gaskets, seals, RTV, and fluids: $50–$250
• Timing belt/chain, guides, and tensioners (recommended while you’re in there): $150–$600
• Lifters/followers and pushrods or lash caps (as applicable): $150–$600
• Valve springs, retainers, and locks (often required for performance profiles): $150–$500
• Cam phasers or lockout kits for VVT systems: $100–$400
• ECU tune/dyno session (post-install): $200–$800
• Break-in oil or zinc additive for flat-tappet cams: $10–$40

These add-ons can turn a cam-only job into a comprehensive refresh, but they reduce the risk of premature wear, mis-timing, or valve float—and may be mandatory for warranty coverage on performance components.

Key Price Drivers

Understanding the major factors behind camshaft pricing helps explain quotes you’ll receive from shops and parts vendors.

• Engine architecture: Pushrod engines use a single cam; OHC/DOHC engines use two or four cams, increasing part and labor costs.
• Material and manufacturing: Cast replacements are cheaper; billet or custom-ground cams command a premium.
• Valvetrain type: Roller vs. flat-tappet lifters, required spring pressures, and shimmed lash all influence parts and labor.
• VVT complexity: More sophisticated phasing systems raise parts costs and demand precise calibration.
• Brand and market: Boutique grinders and European/JDM applications typically cost more.
• Supply chain and steel pricing: Generally stabilized vs. pandemic peaks, but billet remains pricier in 2025.
• Labor rates and geography: Urban centers and dealer service departments tend to charge more than independents.

The interplay of these variables determines whether your project lands near the low end (simple pushrod refresh) or escalates (multi-cam, VVT-heavy, or bespoke builds).

Real-World Examples

These ballpark scenarios reflect current street-market pricing and typical installer quotes for popular platforms.

• GM LS V8 street cam kit (cam, springs, pushrods): $800–$1,200 parts; installed $2,000–$3,200 with gaskets and tune
• Honda K‑series DOHC pair of performance cams: $700–$1,400 parts; installed $1,800–$3,200 including timing components
• Ford Coyote 5.0 (four cams) upgrade: $1,200–$2,000 parts; installed $3,000–$5,000 including phasers and calibration
• Jeep 4.0L flat‑tappet cam + lifter kit: $300–$600 parts; installed $1,100–$2,000 with break‑in supplies

Exact totals vary by model year, space constraints, and whether you bundle related maintenance like chains, guides, or phasers.

Buying Tips

A careful parts plan and clear goals will keep your cam upgrade on budget and on target.

1. Match the cam to your exact engine code and VVT setup; verify with the supplier.
2. Choose a profile that fits your usage (street torque vs. high‑RPM power) and converter/gearing if applicable.
3. Budget for springs and an ECU tune—many profiles require both for safe operation.
4. Be cautious with used cams; inspect lobes and journals for scoring or pitting.
5. Consider a regrind only if your core and lifters are suitable and the grinder guarantees spec.
6. Compare “kit” pricing to piecemeal purchases; kits often include matched springs and hardware.
7. Follow break‑in procedures and oil requirements to protect warranty and longevity.

Doing the homework up front reduces surprises, improves drivability, and helps avoid repeat labor.

Bottom Line

For most vehicles in 2025, expect $150–$700 for a camshaft, $700–$1,500+ for high‑performance or multi‑cam sets, and $1,200–$3,500 all‑in for installation, with complex DOHC platforms running higher. Get quotes using your VIN/engine code, plan for supporting parts and tuning, and consider a matched kit to simplify the process and protect your investment.

Summary

A camshaft’s price depends on engine type, materials, and supporting components. Typical parts run $150–$700 (stock/performance single-cam) and $700–$1,500+ (multi-cam or billet). With labor, gaskets, timing components, and tuning, most jobs total $1,200–$3,500, while intricate DOHC builds can exceed $5,000. Align the cam choice with your goals, and budget for springs and calibration to ensure reliability and performance.

Is it worth replacing a camshaft?

Replacing a camshaft is worth it for severe wear, damage, or for performance upgrades, especially if the vehicle is otherwise in good condition and you need long-term reliability. However, if the engine itself is heavily worn, a full engine rebuild may be more cost-effective than a single camshaft replacement. 
Reasons to Replace a Camshaft

• Preventative Maintenance for a Healthy Engine: Replacing a camshaft is a good investment if the rest of your engine is in good shape, as it restores lost performance, improves fuel efficiency, and ensures longer engine life. 
• Engine Performance Upgrades: Replacing a camshaft with an upgraded one can significantly improve engine power and performance. 
• Damage and Reliability: A worn or damaged camshaft affects engine power, creates misfires, and can lead to other engine problems. A new camshaft ensures better reliability and performance. 
• Warranty Protection: A new camshaft often comes with a warranty, providing long-term assurance against defects and unexpected repair costs. 

When It May Not Be Worth It

• Extensive Engine Wear: Opens in new tabIf the camshaft is so worn that the rest of the engine is also significantly worn, it may be more practical to rebuild or replace the entire engine rather than just the camshaft. 
• Cost-Effectiveness: Opens in new tabFor older vehicles with lower resale value, the cost of a camshaft replacement may outweigh the potential benefit or value of the vehicle itself. 

Signs a Camshaft Needs Replacing

• Engine Noises: Ticking or tapping noises from the valve train. 
• Performance Issues: Reduced engine power, poor acceleration, rough idling, or engine misfires. 
• Check Engine Light: Illuminates due to issues related to valve timing or engine performance. 
• Poor Fuel Efficiency: Worn cam lobes can affect valve operation, leading to poor fuel economy. 

Important Considerations

• Associated Repairs: When replacing a camshaft, you may also need to replace other valve train components, such as lifters or rocker arms. 
• Timing: Incorrect timing during reinstallation can lead to serious engine damage, so professional help is often recommended. 

How much does it cost to replace a camshaft?

A camshaft replacement typically costs between $1,500 and $3,500, including parts and labor, though this can vary significantly based on your vehicle’s make and model, the extent of the damage, and whether other parts like the timing belt, lifters, or seals also need replacement. For example, a replacement for a Chevrolet Silverado could be around $3,500–$4,900, while a Honda Civic might be closer to $1,700–$2,300, with labor being the most significant portion of the cost.
 
Factors influencing the cost

• Vehicle Type: Different vehicles have different engine designs, which affects the labor time and cost of parts. 
• Labor Costs: This is often the largest part of the total expense, as camshaft replacement is a labor-intensive job that requires significant time and expertise. 
• Additional Parts: It’s common to replace related components at the same time, such as timing belts, lifters, gaskets, and seals, which adds to the overall price. 
• Type of Camshaft: More powerful or specialized camshafts will naturally cost more. 

Typical cost breakdowns

• Parts: While the camshaft itself isn’t the most expensive part, related components like lifters, timing belts, and seals add to the overall parts cost. 
• Labor: Expect to pay a significant amount for labor alone, as it’s a time-consuming process. 
• Dealerships vs. Independent Shops: Dealerships may be more expensive due to higher labor rates and potential for specialized tools. 

How to get an accurate quote

• Provide your vehicle details: Use online tools from sites like RepairPal and provide your vehicle’s year, make, and model for a more accurate estimate. 
• Ask for a detailed quote: Get a comprehensive quote from your mechanic that lists all parts and labor involved, as well as any related repairs that may be necessary. 

Can you still drive with a bad camshaft?

No, you should not drive with a bad camshaft. A failing camshaft can cause severe engine damage, poor engine performance, and potential stalling, which can lead to accidents. If you suspect you have a bad camshaft, it is best to stop driving the vehicle immediately and have it towed to a qualified mechanic for inspection and repair to avoid further, more expensive damage. 
Why you shouldn’t drive with a bad camshaft:

• Serious Engine Damage: Continued use can cause severe, costly damage to other engine parts. 
• Poor Performance: Expect issues like a rough or lopey idle, lack of power, and poor fuel economy. 
• Stalling: The engine can stall unexpectedly, putting you and others at risk of an accident. 
• Misfires and Incomplete Combustion: A worn camshaft can cause valves to open incorrectly, leading to misfires and unburnt fuel in the exhaust system, which can damage the catalytic converter. 
• Increased Risk: The unpredictability of a failing engine makes it dangerous for both you and other motorists. 

What to do instead:

• Stop Driving: As soon as you notice symptoms, stop using the vehicle. 
• Get it Towed: Have your car towed to a qualified mechanic. 
• Consult a Technician: A certified technician can properly diagnose the issue and recommend the necessary repairs to avoid further damage. 

What are the symptoms of a bad camshaft?

Symptoms of a failing camshaft include a lit check engine light, a rough engine idle, poor engine performance with a loss of power, increased fuel consumption, and engine misfires or stalling. You may also hear a distinct ticking or knocking noise from the engine, and you might find metal debris in your engine oil if the camshaft is physically worn or damaged.
 
Engine Performance & Noise

• Rough Idle and Misfires: Inconsistent valve timing due to a bad camshaft can lead to poor combustion, causing the engine to shake or misfire. 
• Loss of Power: Improperly timed valves result in less efficient combustion, which can manifest as a noticeable lack of power and poor acceleration. 
• Ticking or Tapping Noises: Worn-out camshaft lobes increase the valve clearance, creating a loud tapping or ticking sound from the top of the engine, especially when it’s cold. 
• Engine Stalling: Severe camshaft problems can disrupt the combustion process so much that the engine stalls, particularly at low speeds or when idling. 
• Backfiring: Incorrectly opening or closing valves can allow fuel to ignite prematurely or in the wrong place, causing the engine to backfire. 

Warning Lights & Environmental Factors

• Check Engine Light: The engine’s computer (ECU) will often detect misfires, timing issues, or incorrect sensor readings from a bad camshaft, triggering the check engine light. 
• Increased Fuel Consumption: Inefficient combustion due to a failing camshaft means the engine burns fuel less effectively, leading to decreased fuel economy. 
• Failed Emissions Test: Poor engine performance and incomplete combustion can result in higher emissions, leading to a failed emissions test. 

Physical Evidence 

• Metal Debris in Engine Oil: As the camshaft and its components wear down, they can shed small metal shavings that will contaminate the engine oil.
• Visible Damage: Inspecting the camshaft through the valve cover (if accessible) can reveal signs of wear, scoring, or other damage to the lobes and journals.

When to Get Help
These symptoms indicate a potential camshaft problem, which can cause severe engine damage if ignored. It’s crucial to have your vehicle diagnosed and repaired by a qualified mechanic to prevent expensive and extensive damage to your engine.