How Much Does a Car Engine Cost in 2025?

Expect to pay roughly $800–$3,500 for a used engine, $2,500–$6,000+ for a remanufactured unit, and $4,000–$10,000+ for a brand-new crate engine; installed totals typically land between $4,500 and $12,000, while luxury, performance, and diesel applications can run $12,000–$22,000 or more. Prices vary widely by vehicle, engine type, labor rates, warranty, and parts availability.

What “engine cost” actually means

Quotes often differ because “engine” can describe several configurations, from bare internal assemblies to fully dressed units. Knowing the terminology helps you compare apples to apples and avoid surprise add-ons at installation.

The following list explains the most common engine options and what they typically include and cost.

• Short block: The lower end (block, crank, rods, pistons) without cylinder heads or timing gear. Typical parts cost: $1,500–$4,000 for mainstream gasoline engines; more for performance/diesel.
• Long block: Short block plus cylinder head(s) and valvetrain. Usually excludes external accessories. Typical parts cost: $2,500–$6,500 for mainstream engines; $6,000–$12,000+ for performance/luxury/diesel.
• Complete crate engine: Long block plus many externals (sometimes intake, oil pan, covers) and often a factory warranty. Typical parts cost: $4,000–$10,000+; high-performance and OE dealer units can exceed $12,000.
• Remanufactured engine: Professionally rebuilt to spec with new wear parts and machined components; sold as short or long blocks. Typical parts cost: $2,500–$6,000+ for gas; $6,000–$12,000+ for diesel/luxury.
• Used/salvage engine: Pulled from a donor vehicle, often sold with a limited start-up warranty. Typical parts cost: $800–$3,500, depending on mileage, demand, and documentation.

Short blocks are cheapest but require more labor and additional parts; long blocks and crate engines reduce labor and risk but cost more up front. Reman units balance price and warranty, while used engines can be cost-effective if mileage and condition are verified.

Current price ranges by vehicle category

Engine prices scale with size, complexity, and brand. Turbocharging, direct injection, and limited availability tend to push costs higher, as do European luxury models and modern diesels.

• Economy/compact 4-cylinder (Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic): Engine $1,800–$5,500; installed $3,500–$8,500.
• Mainstream V6 (Toyota Camry V6, Honda Pilot, Chevy Impala): Engine $3,000–$7,000; installed $5,500–$11,000.
• V8/performance (Ford 5.0, GM LS/LT, HEMI): Engine $5,000–$12,000+; installed $8,000–$18,000.
• European luxury turbo (BMW, Audi, Mercedes): Engine $6,000–$12,000; installed $9,000–$16,000.
• Diesel light-truck (Power Stroke, Duramax, Cummins): Engine $9,000–$14,000; installed $12,000–$22,000.
• Hybrids (gasoline engine portion only): Engine $3,000–$7,000 used/reman; installed $5,500–$11,000. Note: hybrid transaxles and batteries are separate costs.

Your VIN, emissions calibration, and options (AWD, turbo, start-stop) can change quotes significantly, so final pricing often hinges on sourcing an exact-match unit.

Labor and installation costs

Beyond the engine itself, installation is a major cost driver. The total depends on labor hours, shop rates, and required supporting parts and programming.

• Labor hours: 10–25+ hours is typical; transverse AWD, turbo, and European platforms often sit on the high end.
• Shop rates: About $100–$200 per hour in the U.S.; dealerships and metro areas trend higher.
• Ancillary parts/fluids: $300–$1,200 for gaskets, seals, fluids, belts, mounts, and incidentals.
• Programming/diagnostics: $150–$400 for ECU/immobilizer programming, calibrations, and post-install checks.
• Machine work (if rebuilding): $500–$2,500 for machining, head work, and cleaning.
• Shipping and core charges: $200–$500 for freight; refundable core deposits can run $300–$1,500 if you return your old engine.

Stacked together, labor, programming, and parts often add $2,000–$6,000 to the engine’s price before taxes and fees.

Real-world examples (typical 2024–2025 market quotes)

These ranges reflect common quotes from independent shops, dealerships, and reputable engine suppliers; actual figures vary by region and vehicle history.

• 2016–2019 Toyota Corolla 1.8L: Used/low-mile engine $1,800–$3,000; reman $3,500–$5,500; installed $4,500–$8,500.
• 2015–2020 Ford F-150 5.0L V8: New crate $6,500–$8,500; reman $5,500–$7,500; installed $8,500–$12,500.
• 2014–2019 Subaru Outback 2.5L: Reman long block $4,500–$7,000; installed $7,000–$11,000 (timing components often added).
• 2013–2018 BMW 335i/435i (N55 turbo): Used $5,000–$8,000; reman $8,000–$12,000; installed $10,000–$16,000.
• 2017–2022 Ram 2500 6.7L Cummins: Long block $10,000–$13,500; installed $14,000–$22,000 depending on ancillaries and programming.

VIN-specific compatibility, mileage documentation, and warranty terms can shift these totals, so ask for itemized estimates.

Factors that drive price

Understanding what pushes quotes up or down can help you choose the right path and avoid overruns.

• Mileage/condition of a used engine and ability to verify compression or running video.
• Availability/rarity; high-demand or low-supply engines command premiums.
• Complexity: turbocharging, direct injection, and unique emissions hardware increase cost.
• Exact VIN and emissions calibration requirements to avoid check-engine issues.
• Warranty length and whether labor is covered if the replacement fails.
• Source: dealer OEM, independent reman, or salvage yard each price differently.
• Regional labor rates and shop specialization (European/diesel specialists charge more).
• Scope creep: replacing clutch, timing sets, water pump, hoses, and mounts while the engine is out.

The same vehicle can see very different totals depending on these variables, so a detailed, line-item quote is essential.

Rebuild versus replace

If your core is rebuildable, overhauling your engine can be competitive with a reman swap, though it usually takes longer and depends on local machine-shop quality.

• Basic refresh (rings, bearings, gaskets, light head work): $2,000–$4,000 in parts/machine work, plus R&R labor.
• Full rebuild (boring, crank grind, head reconditioning, timing set, oil pump): $4,000–$8,000+ for mainstream gas engines.
• Performance build (forged internals, upgraded hardware): $6,000–$15,000+ before labor, depending on goals.

Rebuilding can preserve original fitment and may be best when reman/new options are scarce; reman or crate engines offer faster turnaround and broader warranties.

How to save—and what to ask

Smart sourcing and clear expectations can trim thousands off the final bill and improve reliability.

1. Get 3–5 quotes using your VIN and confirm exact engine code and calibration.
2. Ask about warranty length, mileage limits, and whether labor is covered on defects.
3. Clarify what’s included: gaskets, fluids, mounts, timing components, and sensors.
4. Confirm core charge amount, return window, and condition requirements.
5. Consider low-mile used engines only with documentation (car-part aggregators, donor VIN, compression/leak-down).
6. Bundle preventative parts (water pump, thermostat, belts, plugs) while the engine is out to save future labor.
7. Verify programming fees and immobilizer/keys procedures to avoid start-up surprises.
8. Choose shops experienced with your make/model—especially for European, turbo, or diesel engines.

A transparent scope, verified parts, and a reputable installer are the best safeguards against cost overruns.

Bottom line

For most cars in 2025, budget $2,500–$6,000+ for the engine alone or $4,500–$12,000 installed, with premium, performance, and diesel applications reaching $12,000–$22,000+. Get VIN-specific, itemized quotes that spell out parts, labor hours, programming, warranty, core charges, and incidentals.

Summary

Engine replacement costs hinge on the type of unit (used, reman, crate), vehicle category, labor time, and warranty. Typical engine prices range from $800 to over $10,000, with installed totals commonly $4,500–$12,000 and higher for luxury, performance, and diesel models. Compare detailed, VIN-matched quotes, verify warranties, and consider preventative parts during installation to optimize cost and reliability.

Is it worth replacing a car’s engine?

Replacing an engine can be worth it if your car is otherwise in good condition, replacing the engine is significantly cheaper than buying a new or newer used car, and if the vehicle has sentimental value or you want to avoid car payments and higher insurance costs. However, it’s generally not worth it for vehicles that are very old (12-14+ years) or already have many other issues, as those components might require replacement soon after the engine, making it a less financially sound investment. 
Factors to Consider

• Cost vs. Car Value: Opens in new tabCompare the cost of engine replacement to the current value of your car. If the replacement cost is more than half the car’s value, buying a new vehicle might be a better financial decision. 
• Vehicle Condition: Opens in new tabThe rest of your car should be in good condition. If you have other problems with the frame, transmission, or other major systems, an engine replacement may not be worthwhile. 
• Financial Goals: Opens in new tabConsider your financial situation. If you want to avoid a new car payment and the associated increase in insurance costs, an engine replacement can be a way to keep your current vehicle running longer. 
• Type of Replacement Engine: Opens in new tabA remanufactured or used engine is usually more affordable than a brand-new engine but often comes with a warranty, offering a good balance of cost and reliability. 

When an Engine Replacement May Be a Good Idea

• Good Condition: Your car is otherwise reliable and in great shape. 
• High Attachment: You have a strong emotional attachment to the vehicle. 
• Avoid New Car Payments: You want to avoid making car payments and increased insurance premiums. 
• Eco-Friendly: Replacing an engine is often more environmentally friendly than building a new car. 

When an Engine Replacement May NOT Be a Good Idea

• Old Vehicle: The vehicle is more than 12-14 years old and has many miles on it. 
• Other Major Issues: There are other significant mechanical issues with the car, such as problems with the transmission, frame, or suspension. 
• High Repair Cost: The cost of the engine replacement is close to or exceeds the car’s actual market value. 

What is the average cost to replace an engine in a car?

between $5,000-$10,000
Engine Replacement Cost
On average, drivers can expect to pay between $5,000-$10,000 for an engine replacement. Of course, costs can vary based on a few factors. The two most common factors that will influence the overall cost of the replacement are vehicle type and new or used engine.

How much is an engine for a car?

How much does it cost to replace an engine? The replacement cost is going to vary greatly based on the vehicle, the year, and the type of engine you choose. It could be from $2000 to more than $10,000, and pricing it out based on your needs is key.

What is the cost of a car engine?

Car Engine

Company Name	Currency	Price
Pratik Enterprise	INR	75000
S G ELECTRONICS	INR	3100
Adm Joinflex India Pvt Ltd	INR	65000
Bijay Motor Parts	INR	70000