How Much Does It Cost to Replace Your Engine?

For most cars in the U.S., an engine replacement typically runs $4,000–$8,000 for a mainstream 4‑cylinder, $6,000–$12,000 for a V6, and $7,500–$20,000+ for a V8, with European luxury, diesel, and performance models often reaching $12,000–$30,000+. The final price depends on the engine source (used, remanufactured, or new crate), vehicle make and model, labor rate, and add‑on parts or programming.

What You’re Paying For

Engine replacement is a bundle of parts, labor, logistics, and programming. Here’s what typically builds the final bill and why each line item matters.

• Engine unit: used take‑out, remanufactured long block/complete drop‑in, or a new OEM crate engine—each with different price and warranty.
• Labor: removal and installation often takes 10–25 hours depending on packaging, AWD, turbocharging, and subframe drops.
• Gaskets, seals, timing set, water pump, belts/hoses, spark plugs, fluids and filters: preventive items often replaced during the swap.
• Programming: ECU/immobilizer relearn, module updates, and adaptations on modern vehicles.
• Machine work or accessories transfer: brackets, sensors, turbo/SC hardware, manifolds, and emissions components moved from the old engine.
• Shipping and handling: freight for the engine and return of the core.
• Taxes, shop supplies, environmental fees, and the core charge (refunded when your old engine is returned in rebuildable condition).

Together, these pieces create a wide price range, even for the same model, which is why written, line‑item quotes matter.

Typical Price Ranges by Vehicle and Engine Type

Below are ballpark installed prices (parts and labor) U.S.-wide as of 2025. Regional labor rates, part availability, and vehicle condition can move you lower or higher within each band.

• Economy/compact 4‑cylinder (Civic, Corolla, Focus): $4,000–$8,000 installed.
• Mid‑size/V6 sedans and crossovers (Camry V6, Accord V6, Highlander, Explorer): $6,000–$12,000 installed.
• V8 trucks and SUVs (F‑150 5.0, Silverado 5.3/6.2, Tahoe): $7,500–$15,000 installed; European/performance V8s can run $12,000–$20,000+.
• Diesel pickups (Power Stroke, Duramax, Cummins): $12,000–$22,000+ installed.
• European luxury/performance (BMW, Mercedes‑Benz, Audi, Porsche): $12,000–$30,000+ installed, driven by parts pricing and labor complexity.
• Hybrids: replacing the gasoline engine typically $5,000–$10,000; hybrid battery is separate. EVs don’t have engines—drive unit swaps can be $6,000–$15,000+, often covered under longer powertrain warranties.

If your quote sits far outside these bands, ask the shop to explain parts choices, labor hours, and any unusual add‑ons.

Engine Source Options and What They Cost

Your choice of engine type is the biggest driver of price and warranty. Here’s how the common options compare.

• Used take‑out engine: $1,000–$4,500 for the unit; 30–180‑day parts warranty is typical. Lowest upfront cost, highest risk of unknown history.
• Remanufactured long block/complete: $2,500–$7,000+ for the unit; often 3‑year/100,000‑mile parts warranty. Best balance of reliability and price for many mainstream vehicles.
• New OEM crate engine: $3,500–$10,000+ for the unit; 2–3‑year warranties common. Premium cost, strongest provenance.
• Local rebuild of your engine: $2,500–$6,000 for machine work/parts plus R&R labor. Quality depends on the rebuilder and the condition of your core.
• Imported/JDM engines: can be cost‑effective for certain models but verify compression, accessories compatibility, emissions legality, and warranty terms.

Match the engine source to your budget, how long you plan to keep the car, and the availability of reputable suppliers for your model.

Labor Time and Shop Rates

Labor is the second‑largest cost after the engine itself. Complexity varies by drivetrain layout, year, and packaging.

• Time: 10–20 hours is common; 20–30+ hours for tight engine bays, AWD subframes, turbo/SC setups, or significant corrosion.
• Rates: $110–$180/hr at independent shops; $160–$250/hr at dealerships in many metro areas.
• Programming/adaptations: 0.5–2.0 hours for ECU/immobilizer, throttle relearns, and emissions readiness.

A quote should list labor hours and rate, not just a flat number, so you can compare shops fairly.

When Replacement Makes Financial Sense

Replacing an engine is a major decision. These checkpoints help determine whether to fix or move on.

• Vehicle value vs. repair cost: If the installed cost exceeds the car’s private‑party value, consider selling, donating, or parting out.
• Overall condition: Rust, transmission health, suspension, and electronics should justify the investment.
• Warranty coverage: Reman/crate warranties can add confidence if you’ll keep the car 3+ years.
• Insurance/financing: Some lenders will finance major repairs; comprehensive warranties may exclude engine failure—verify before committing.

If the chassis is solid and you like the vehicle, a quality reman long block often pencils out versus buying an unknown used car.

Ways to Save Without Getting Burned

You can reduce cost and risk with a few targeted choices and questions.

• Ask for a reman long block with a written, nationwide warranty; avoid the cheapest unknown used engines.
• Bundle wear items (timing set, water pump, plugs, thermostat, mounts) while the engine is out to avoid duplicate labor later.
• Insist on full diagnostics first—overheats, oil pressure, and misfires can have multiple causes.
• Shop 2–3 quotes with detailed line items, not just totals; verify supplier reputation and warranty labor coverage.
• Clarify core charges, shipping, programming fees, and any alignment/subframe labor in advance.
• Consider reputable independent shops; dealers can be pricier without added benefit for out‑of‑warranty cars.

Smart scope decisions and a solid warranty often beat chasing the absolute lowest price.

Hidden Costs and Common Surprises

Unexpected items can push a midrange quote into premium territory. Plan for these possibilities.

• ECU/immobilizer programming, keys, and anti‑theft relearns.
• Radiator, hoses, heater core leaks discovered under pressure; oil cooler failures.
• Motor mounts, exhaust hardware, catalytic converter studs, and rusted fasteners.
• Turbocharger or fuel system components damaged by prior failure.
• Alignment if the subframe is removed; A/C evacuate and recharge.
• Freight surcharges, taxes, shop supplies, and environmental fees.

Ask the shop to call for approval if additional parts exceed a pre‑agreed contingency amount.

Real‑World Example Estimates (2025)

Here are representative installed ranges from U.S. shops for common vehicles, assuming quality reman or crate options and necessary incidentals.

• 2016 Honda Civic 2.0L: $4,500–$7,500.
• 2014 Toyota Camry 3.5L V6: $6,500–$10,500.
• 2018 Ford F‑150 5.0L V8: $8,500–$14,000.
• 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 6.6L Duramax: $14,000–$22,000.
• 2019 BMW 540i (B58 I6): $12,000–$20,000.
• 2015 Toyota Prius 1.8L hybrid engine (gas engine only): $5,500–$9,000.

Actual numbers will reflect parts availability, mileage targets, and local labor rates; always request a VIN‑specific quote.

How Long It Takes

Turnaround depends on parts sourcing and shop workload.

• Engine in stock: 2–4 business days.
• Freight/machine work needed: 5–10 business days.
• Complex Euro/diesel jobs: 1–3 weeks, especially if special tools or coding are required.

Scheduling ahead and pre‑ordering the engine can shave days off downtime.

Questions to Ask Before You Approve the Job

Clear expectations reduce surprises and protect your warranty.

• What engine source is being used and what’s the parts and labor warranty?
• What labor hours and rate are assumed? What programming fees apply?
• Which wear items are included while the engine is out?
• What is the core charge and return timeline?
• What break‑in procedure and oil type are required to keep the warranty valid?
• What is the estimated lead time and completion date?

Keep the written estimate and warranty terms; they’re your reference if issues arise.

Summary

Engine replacement costs vary widely, but most mainstream vehicles fall between $4,000 and $12,000 installed, with trucks, diesels, and European luxury models often higher. Your biggest levers are the engine source, shop rate, and how much preventive work you include while the engine is out. Get line‑item quotes, choose a reputable supplier with a solid warranty, and confirm programming and incidentals up front to avoid surprises.

How much does a V8 engine cost?

Pricing

General Shop Labor Rate	$125.00/hr
V8 Shortblock	$500.00
V8 Longblock (No Covers/ Pans)	$650.00
V8 Complete (Non-Competition)	$850.00
V8 Complete (All Competition Engines Excl. Custom Work)	$1,250.00

How much should it cost to replace an engine?

The cost to replace a car’s engine varies widely, generally ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on factors like the type of engine (used, rebuilt, or new), your vehicle’s make and model, and labor costs. Used engines are the cheapest option, while new or remanufactured engines with warranties offer more reliability but at a higher price.
 
Factors Influencing Engine Replacement Cost

• Type of Engine:
  • Used/Salvage Engine: The most affordable option, but the least reliable, with a higher risk of unknown issues. 
  • Rebuilt Engine: An option where a used engine has been repaired and restored to good working order, offering a middle ground in cost and reliability. 
  • Remanufactured/Crate Engine: A more expensive but reliable engine that has been completely disassembled, cleaned, and rebuilt. 
  • New (OEM) Engine: The most expensive, purchased directly from the manufacturer, and typically comes with a warranty. 
• Vehicle Make and Model: Luxury, high-performance, or specialty vehicles have more expensive engines and labor costs compared to common makes. 
• Labor Costs: The cost of labor depends on the shop’s rates and the complexity of the specific engine replacement job. 
• Additional Parts and Fluids: The total cost includes replacement of related components like belts, hoses, and fluids, as well as necessary sensors and a new battery. 

Cost Breakdown

• Engine Parts Only:
  • Used Engine: $600 to $4,000 
  • Rebuilt Engine: $2,500 to $4,000 
  • New/Remanufactured Engine: $4,000 to $10,000+ 
• Labor: $1,200 to $3,000 or more 

Tips for Managing Costs

• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain estimates from several reputable repair shops to compare prices. 
• Consider a Remanufactured Engine: These engines offer a good balance of cost, reliability, and a warranty. 
• Research Financing Options: Some repair shops may offer financing for the engine replacement. 

Is it cheaper to fix an engine or replace it?

It is usually cheaper to replace an engine than rebuild. The cost difference is due to the labor hours needed to rebuild. It is far more efficient in terms of labor to pull an engine and drop a replacement in place than it is to pull the engine, rebuild it, and reinstall.

Is it worth fixing a bad engine?

Sure. It’s simple economics. If the fixed car will provide reliable service long enough that the cost of repairing it is less than replacing it, then do it. Once a worn/old engine is properly rebuilt, the car is significantly more likely to operate reliably for another decade.