How Much Is a 2008 Honda Civic Engine?

Expect to pay about $800–$1,800 for a used 1.8L R18 long block, $2,300–$3,600 for a remanufactured unit, $2,200–$4,500 for a used 2.0L Si (K20Z3) engine, and $3,800–$6,500 for a reman Si long block. Hybrid 1.3L engines often run $600–$1,200 used, while the rare CNG (GX) 1.8L typically fetches $1,500–$3,000 used. Installed totals—including labor and incidentals—generally land around $3,000–$6,000 for the 1.8L and $5,000–$9,000 for the Si, depending on mileage, warranty, and parts availability.

What Determines the Price of a 2008 Civic Engine

Pricing varies by engine variant, condition, mileage, warranty, and supply. The 2008 Civic came with several distinct powertrains: the mainstream 1.8L R18A1 (DX/LX/EX), the performance-oriented 2.0L K20Z3 (Si), the 1.3L LDA hybrid engine, and the low-volume Civic GX (CNG). Demand for the Si’s K-series keeps prices elevated, while the common R18 tends to be more affordable and abundant. Warranties and proof of compression/testing raise value, as do lower verified miles. Geographic availability and shipping also influence final cost.

Typical Price Ranges by Engine Type

The following ranges reflect recent U.S. market norms for long-block assemblies (unless noted), based on current availability and typical reseller listings.

• 1.8L R18A1 (DX/LX/EX/EX-L): Used $800–$1,800; remanufactured $2,300–$3,600; short blocks (when available) roughly $1,800–$2,800.
• 2.0L K20Z3 (Si): Used $2,200–$4,500 (clean, lower-mile examples commonly $3,000–$4,000); remanufactured $3,800–$6,500.
• 1.3L LDA w/ IMA (Hybrid): Used $600–$1,200; remanufactured typically $2,000–$3,000, but supply is sporadic.
• 1.8L CNG (Civic GX): Used $1,500–$3,000; remanufactured $3,000–$4,500, reflecting rarity and limited cores.
• JDM imports (R18/K20 variants): Frequently $1,100–$1,800 for R18 and $2,700–$4,200 for K-series, usually advertised as “low-mileage.”

These figures assume a complete long block with cylinder head and block. Accessories like alternators, A/C compressors, intake/exhaust manifolds, sensors, and ECUs are often excluded or carry surcharges.

Where People Commonly Buy These Engines

Different channels balance price, warranty, and certainty. Here’s where buyers typically source replacements and what to expect.

• Salvage yard networks and aggregators: Competitive used pricing and VIN-matched interchange; warranties range 30–180 days.
• National recyclers: Consistent grading, photos, and test documentation; midrange pricing with 6–12 month warranties common.
• JDM importers: “Low-mile” engines from Japan; attractive pricing for R18 and K-series, but verify sensor/ancillary compatibility.
• Remanufacturers: Higher upfront cost; 3-year/100,000-mile warranties are common and include updated wear components.
• Private marketplaces: Lowest sticker prices possible; buyer beware on testing, compression, and return policies.

When comparing, weigh freight costs, core charges, and return terms alongside the sticker price, and ask for compression/leak-down results when possible.

Installation and Total Swap Cost

Total out-the-door price depends on labor hours, shop rate, and the “while-you’re-in-there” parts you replace. Below is a typical breakdown.

• Labor: Roughly 10–18 hours, translating to $1,200–$3,000 at typical independent-shop rates.
• Fluids and gaskets: $200–$600 (coolant, oil/filter, thermostat, seals; often new motor mounts as needed).
• Ancillaries: Timing components, water pump, spark plugs, serpentine belt—$150–$500, depending on engine and condition.
• Clutch (manual cars): $400–$900 in parts plus 2–3 hours labor if done concurrently (Si owners often plan this).
• ECU/immobilizer updates and calibration: Usually modest but varies by shop; verify for hybrid/CNG specifics.

All-in, most 1.8L jobs land near $3,000–$6,000 depending on engine source and scope; Si swaps commonly run $5,000–$9,000 due to higher engine prices and performance-part premiums.

Fitment Notes and Factors That Move the Price

Selecting the correct engine and understanding what’s included can prevent costly do-overs and add-ons.

• Engine codes: 1.8L R18A1 (mainstream trims), 2.0L K20Z3 (Si), 1.3L LDA (Hybrid), and the CNG-specific GX 1.8L. Match your VIN/trim.
• Interchange years: Many 2006–2011 1.8L units interchange with minor sensor/bracket swaps; confirm with the seller.
• Long block vs. complete drop-in: Listings vary; manifolds, injectors, sensors, and harnesses may not be included.
• Mileage and testing: Engines with verified compression and lower miles command higher prices but reduce risk.
• Warranty length: A longer, no-hassle warranty adds cost but can be worthwhile if labor is expensive.

Before paying, get a written list of included components, compression/leak-down numbers, warranty terms, and the donor VIN or mileage documentation.

Tips to Get the Best Value

A methodical approach can save hundreds and improve reliability after the swap.

1. Match by VIN and engine code, and confirm interchange notes with the seller.
2. Ask for compression/leak-down results and run videos when available.
3. Price in the “hidden” costs: freight, core charges, fluids, gaskets, and mounts.
4. Replace wear items (water pump, plugs, belt) while the engine is out.
5. For Si buyers, beware of hard-driven engines—prioritize documentation and warranty.
6. Consider remanufactured if you need predictable reliability and longer warranty coverage.

Spending a bit more for documentation and preventive parts typically reduces rework and protects your total investment.

Frequently Asked Clarifications

Is a brand-new OEM crate engine available for the 2008 Civic?

New crate engines are rare or discontinued for this generation. If found, pricing can exceed typical remanufactured options and availability varies by region. Most buyers opt for used or reman long blocks.

Do JDM engines drop right in?

Often, but you may need to swap over U.S.-spec sensors, intake/exhaust manifolds, and sometimes valve covers or accessory brackets. Verify EGR and emissions equipment compatibility.

Will a high-mile used engine be reliable?

The R18 is generally durable if maintained; prioritize engines with service history or test numbers. For the Si’s K20Z3, condition varies more with prior use—warranty and testing matter.

Summary

For a 2008 Honda Civic, a used 1.8L R18 engine typically costs $800–$1,800, while a reman unit runs $2,300–$3,600. The Si’s 2.0L K20Z3 commands $2,200–$4,500 used and $3,800–$6,500 reman. Hybrid 1.3L engines are commonly $600–$1,200 used, and the CNG GX 1.8L sits around $1,500–$3,000 used. After adding labor and incidentals, expect about $3,000–$6,000 installed for the 1.8L and $5,000–$9,000 for the Si. Verify engine code, interchange, included parts, testing, and warranty to avoid surprises and protect your budget.

How much does a 2008 Honda Civic engine cost?

The prices of Remanufactured Engines for the 2008 Honda Civic range from $3,206.99 up to $3,432.99 for the most premium parts.

How much is a used 2008 Honda Civic worth today?

A 2008 Honda Civic LX Sedan 4D has depreciated $1,144 or 23% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $3,709 and trade-in value of $2,372.

How much is it to replace an engine in a Honda Civic?

That means the cost of replacing an engine can range anywhere from $1,800 on an economy vehicle (like a Honda Civic with a salvage engine) all the way to an eye-watering $16,000+ for a vehicle with a handmade engine (like a Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG).

How long can a 2008 Honda Civic engine last?

between 200,000 and 300,000 miles
With proper maintenance, a Honda Civic can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles. Many owners have reported reaching well beyond that range. The key to long life? Routine maintenance, timely repairs, and a bit of care in your driving habits.