How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Camshaft on a Car

Expect to pay roughly $1,300 to $4,000 in the U.S. to replace a camshaft as of 2025, with simple pushrod engines sometimes as low as $800–$1,800 and complex DOHC or luxury/performance engines often ranging $2,500–$5,000+. The total depends on engine design, labor hours (typically 6–16+), local labor rates ($120–$200/hr common), and whether related components like lifters, cam phasers, or timing sets are replaced at the same time.

What Drives the Price

Several technical and market factors determine what you’ll actually pay for a camshaft replacement. Understanding these helps explain why quotes can vary widely between vehicles and shops.

• Engine design and access: Pushrod (cam-in-block) engines are often easier than DOHC engines with multiple cams and tight packaging.
• Number of camshafts: DOHC engines have two cams per bank; V-type DOHC engines can have four total, raising parts costs.
• Variable valve timing (VVT): Cam phasers and solenoids add parts cost and setup time.
• Timing layout: Belt vs chain, and whether guides/tensioners or a full timing set must be replaced.
• Service access: Some transverse V6/V8 or certain trucks may require lifting the engine or removing the front clip, increasing labor hours.
• Collateral damage: If a cam lobe wipes or a chain skips, you may also face bent valves or head work.
• Parts choices: OEM vs aftermarket vs reman assemblies; availability varies by make/model.
• Local labor rates: Dealerships and high-cost regions typically charge more per hour.

These variables can compound: a DOHC engine with VVT in a tight engine bay will cost more than a simple pushrod engine with easy access and no additional damage.

Typical Cost Ranges by Vehicle Type

While each car is different, these ballpark totals reflect common real-world quotes in 2025 for parts and labor combined.

• Small SOHC 4‑cylinder (belt-driven): $1,000–$2,000
• DOHC 4‑cyl/6‑cyl with VVT (chain-driven): $1,800–$4,000
• Pushrod V8 truck/SUV (cam-in-block): $1,200–$2,800 (higher if lifters/AFM-DFM parts are replaced)
• Subaru/Boxer DOHC: $2,000–$3,500
• European luxury/performance DOHC V6/V8: $3,000–$6,000+
• Light-duty diesel: $3,500–$6,500+

If the cam failure caused internal damage (e.g., bent valves), the repair can escalate to $3,000–$8,000+ due to cylinder head work or full head replacement.

Parts and Labor Breakdown

Parts

Depending on the engine and the scope of the job, you may replace only the camshaft—or several related components to ensure reliability and warranty coverage.

• Camshaft: $200–$900 each (OEM or quality aftermarket; performance grinds can be higher)
• Lifters/followers/tappets: $100–$600 (pushrod lifters or OHC buckets/rollers)
• Rocker arms/cam followers: $100–$400
• VVT cam phasers/solenoids: $200–$600 each (if worn or recommended by manufacturer)
• Timing belt/chain set (belt/chain, tensioners, guides): $150–$600
• Seals/gaskets (cam seals, valve cover, front cover): $50–$250
• Fluids and incidentals (oil/filter, coolant, sealants, hardware): $50–$150

Many shops advise replacing related wear items while the engine is open, which can add parts cost but reduce future labor and comebacks.

Labor

Labor hours vary widely by engine layout, access, and whether the engine must be partially removed or supported for front-end teardown.

• Pushrod V8/V6: 5–10 labor hours
• SOHC inline-4: 6–12 labor hours
• DOHC transverse 4/6-cylinder: 10–16 labor hours
• Engine-out or front-end removal scenarios: 15–25 labor hours
• Typical 2025 U.S. labor rates: $90–$160/hr independent; $120–$200/hr dealer

Complex timing systems, VVT setup, or tight packaging can push labor toward the higher end of the range.

When Replacement Is Needed—and Common Misdiagnoses

Not every “camshaft” problem is a bad cam. Proper diagnosis avoids unnecessary teardown.

• Camshaft wear/failure signs: tapping/ticking, misfires, loss of power, metal in oil, uneven lobe lift (measured), and low compression on affected cylinders.
• Sensor vs mechanical: Camshaft position sensor (DTCs like P0340–P0344) or timing issues can mimic cam problems; verify with scope data and mechanical inspection.
• Collateral checks: Inspect timing chain/belt condition, oiling issues, and lifter/rocker wear that can damage a new cam if not addressed.
• Oil history: Sludge or extended oil intervals can accelerate cam and lifter wear.

A thorough diagnostic—including scan data, oil inspection, and, when needed, valve cover removal—can distinguish an electrical sensor fault from true mechanical cam damage.

Ways to Save Without Cutting Corners

There are practical steps to reduce cost while maintaining reliability and safety.

• Get 2–3 quotes from reputable shops; ask for line-item parts and labor.
• Choose quality aftermarket or remanufactured parts when appropriate; consider reman cylinder head assemblies with cams installed.
• Bundle maintenance: If due, combine timing belt, water pump, and seals while access is open.
• Replace lifters/followers and oil pump (if recommended) now to avoid repeat labor later.
• Check warranty coverage, extended service contracts, or goodwill policies for known issues.
• Consider low-mile used engines/heads if total rebuild costs climb due to collateral damage.

Balancing parts quality with smart bundling often yields the best long-term value and reduces the risk of repeat failures.

DIY Feasibility

DIY camshaft replacement ranges from challenging to very advanced. Pushrod engines with good access are manageable for experienced enthusiasts with proper tools (torque angle tools, timing fixtures). DOHC/VVT engines usually require specialized locking tools, factory procedures, and precise timing; mistakes can cause catastrophic engine damage. For most modern DOHC vehicles, professional service is recommended.

How Long It Takes

Repair timelines depend on parts availability, machine work, and shop scheduling.

• Same-day to 2 days: Straightforward pushrod or SOHC jobs with parts in stock.
• 2–4 days: DOHC/VVT engines or jobs requiring extensive timing work.
• 3–7+ days: Engine-out procedures or when cylinder head machining/replacement is needed.

Ask your shop about lead times for specialty tools, gaskets, or reman heads, which can affect scheduling.

Bottom Line

Most camshaft replacements land around $1,300–$4,000, driven primarily by engine complexity, labor hours, and the scope of related parts replaced. Complex DOHC/VVT and luxury or diesel applications can exceed $5,000, especially if there’s internal damage. A precise estimate requires your VIN, engine code, and a proper inspection.

Summary

Camshaft replacement typically costs $1,300–$4,000 in the U.S., with simpler pushrod engines at the low end and DOHC/VVT or luxury/diesel vehicles at the high end. Parts often include the camshaft, lifters/followers, timing components, seals, and sometimes VVT phasers; labor commonly spans 6–16+ hours at $90–$200/hr. Confirm the diagnosis, request detailed quotes, and consider bundling related maintenance to control costs and ensure reliability.

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. 

Can you drive a car with a bad camshaft?

No, you should not drive a car with a bad camshaft, as it can lead to serious engine damage and potential accidents. Even if the engine runs, a bad camshaft will cause performance issues like a rough idle, lack of power, and poor fuel economy, but more critically, it puts the entire engine at risk, potentially causing permanent damage to valves, pistons, and other internal components. 
Risks of Driving with a Bad Camshaft

• Engine Damage: A failing camshaft can cause other engine parts, such as valves, pistons, and cylinder heads, to be damaged, leading to much more expensive repairs. 
• Engine Failure: If the camshaft breaks completely, the engine may no longer run at all, or it may seize, stranding you on the side of the road. 
• Catalytic Converter Damage: Unburnt fuel due to misfires can reach the catalytic converter, causing it to overheat and fail, which is a costly part to replace. 
• Accidents: A bad camshaft can cause the engine to stall unexpectedly, which can be dangerous and lead to accidents, especially when slowing down or stopping. 

What to Do Instead

• Seek Professional Help: If you suspect your camshaft is bad, have it inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 
• Avoid Driving: To prevent further damage and ensure safety, it is best to avoid driving the vehicle and arrange for it to be towed to a repair shop. 

This video explains the symptoms of a bad camshaft and the risks of driving with it: 1mAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Jan 22, 2022

Is it expensive to fix a camshaft?

A complete camshaft replacement generally costs between $1,000 and $2,500 or more, encompassing parts and labor, though prices can vary significantly by vehicle model and the specific repair needed. Costs include a new camshaft, labor for a labor-intensive job, and replacement of associated parts like the timing belt, lifters, and seals, which are often done concurrently. For minor repairs or specific components, costs can be lower, with machining the existing camshaft costing around $100 to $300. 
Factors influencing the cost

• Parts: A new camshaft itself can range from $200 to over $1,000, with more complex or high-performance camshafts being more expensive. 
• Labor: Replacing a camshaft is a labor-intensive job, with labor costs potentially ranging from $800 to $1,500 or more, depending on the engine’s complexity and the mechanic’s hourly rate. 
• Associated parts: It’s common practice to replace related components at the same time as the camshaft, such as: 
  • Timing belts or chains 
  • Lifters 
  • Camshaft seals 
• Vehicle make and model: Costs vary significantly between different car brands and engine types (e.g., 4-cylinder vs. V8). 
• Repair vs. Replacement: In some cases, the existing camshaft can be repaired or re-machined, which is less expensive than a full replacement. 

Where to get an estimate

• Mechanic’s Rate: Consult your local mechanic for an accurate quote tailored to your vehicle and location. 
• Online Estimators: Websites like RepairPal can provide estimates for your specific vehicle, but they are not definitive. 
• Dealerships: Dealerships may offer higher prices but can also provide specialized knowledge for specific vehicle models. 

Can you replace a camshaft without removing the engine?

Yes, in many cases, a camshaft can be replaced without removing the entire engine, though it requires significant disassembly of the engine’s front or rear components. For a pushrod engine, you’ll typically remove the timing cover, water pump, and harmonic balancer to access the camshaft, and you must use a specialized tool or a makeshift method, like wooden dowels, to prevent the lifters from falling into the oil pan. For an overhead cam (OHC) engine, the process is generally simpler, involving removal of the valve cover and timing chain to access and replace the camshaft. 
For Pushrod Engines
This process involves keeping the cylinder heads on the engine: 

1. Remove the Radiator: You’ll need to remove the radiator and other components from the front of the engine to gain access. 
2. Remove Front Engine Components: Take off the water pump, timing cover, and harmonic balancer. 
3. Remove Rocker Arms and Pushrods: Loosen and remove the rocker arms and pushrods to release tension on the lifters. 
4. Secure the Lifters: This is a critical step to prevent the lifters from dropping into the engine’s oil pan when the camshaft is removed. 
   • Using Dowels: Insert a 5/16-inch dowel rod or similar tool into the engine block’s oil gallery holes. 
   • Specialized Tools: A specialized tool exists that will hold the lifters in place. 
5. Remove and Install the Camshaft: Once the lifters are secured, you can remove the old camshaft and slide in the new, lubricated camshaft. 
6. Reassemble: Reinstall the timing gear, retaining plate, pushrods, rocker arms, and all removed external components. 

This video demonstrates how to change a camshaft in a pushrod engine without removing the heads: 44sReignited – Cycle and AutomotiveYouTube · May 17, 2025
For Overhead Cam (OHC) Engines
Replacing the camshaft in an OHC engine is often more straightforward and doesn’t involve lifters falling into the oil pan: 

1. Remove the Valve Cover: Opens in new tabThis exposes the camshaft and the valve train. 
2. Remove the Timing Chain/Belt: Opens in new tabDisconnect and remove the timing chain or belt and the associated sprockets. 
3. Remove the Camshaft: Opens in new tabThe camshaft can then be pulled straight out the front or rear of the engine. 
4. Install the New Camshaft: Opens in new tabLubricate and slide the new camshaft into place and reassemble the timing components. 

Considerations

• Engine Type: The feasibility and method depend on whether the engine is pushrod or overhead cam. 
• Room: You need enough space in the engine bay to perform the necessary disassembly and work around the engine. 
• Associated Parts: When doing a camshaft swap, it’s a good time to replace other timing-related components like the water pump and timing chain/belt.