How Much Is a Motor in a Car?

In 2025, replacing a gasoline or diesel car’s “motor” (engine) typically runs $3,500–$12,000+ installed, while replacing an electric vehicle’s traction motor usually costs $4,000–$12,000 installed; parts-only prices are often $1,000–$9,000 for used/rebuilt engines and $2,000–$8,000 for EV motors, with labor, fluids, and programming adding $1,000–$4,000. The exact figure hinges on vehicle make and model, powertrain type, labor rates, and whether you choose used, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new components.

What “Motor” Usually Means

In everyday U.S. usage, people say “motor” when they mean the internal combustion engine. In EVs and hybrids, “motor” refers to the electric traction motor. Costs, availability, and labor time differ significantly between these systems, so identifying which you need is crucial.

Typical Price Ranges (Parts-Only)

The following ranges summarize what consumers can expect to pay for parts alone, before labor, taxes, and shop supplies. These figures reflect mainstream U.S. pricing as of 2025 and vary by brand, displacement, and availability.

• Used salvage-yard engine (ICE): $1,000–$4,000
• Rebuilt/remanufactured engine (ICE): $3,500–$8,000
• New OEM “crate” engine (ICE): $4,000–$12,000+ (performance or specialty: $7,000–$20,000+)
• Hybrid traction motor: $1,500–$4,000
• Mainstream EV traction motor: $2,000–$8,000 (performance or dual-motor units can exceed this)

Prices can skew lower for common 4‑cylinder models and higher for turbocharged, diesel, luxury, and performance applications. Scarcity and freight also affect final parts cost.

Installed Cost by Powertrain

Installed cost includes parts, labor, fluids, gaskets, belts, programming, and incidentals. Labor rates vary widely by region and shop type.

• Internal combustion engine (gas/diesel) replacement: $3,500–$12,000+ installed
• Hybrid traction motor replacement: $2,800–$7,500+ installed
• EV traction motor replacement: $4,000–$12,000+ installed
• Labor rates: ~$100–$180/hr at independents; ~$150–$250/hr at many dealerships
• Typical labor time: 10–20+ hours depending on vehicle layout (FWD/RWD/AWD), packaging, and ancillary work

Ancillary parts and fluids typically add $300–$1,500, and software programming or immobilizer re-pairing may add further costs. Some vehicles require subframe drops or extensive disassembly, increasing labor hours.

What Drives the Price

Several predictable factors explain why two seemingly similar jobs can differ by thousands of dollars.

• Vehicle make and model: Luxury and performance brands tend to cost more for parts and labor.
• Engine or motor type: Turbo, diesel, and high-output variants are pricier than base models.
• New vs. used vs. remanufactured: Reman engines cost more than used but carry better warranties; new OEM is most expensive.
• Availability and logistics: Freight, core charges, and parts scarcity can move prices substantially.
• Labor complexity: Tight engine bays, AWD packaging, and required subframe removal increase labor time.
• Regional labor rates: Coastal metros and dealership service departments generally charge more per hour.

The best predictor is a vehicle-specific estimate that lists the exact component and hours, not a generic “engine swap” line item.

Real-World Ballparks

The examples below illustrate typical ranges for popular segments; actual quotes vary by part source, warranty, and location.

• 2018–2022 Toyota Camry 2.5L (ICE): $5,000–$9,000 installed (reman long block + 12–18 labor hours)
• 2015–2020 Ford F-150 3.5L EcoBoost (ICE): $6,500–$11,000 installed (turbo plumbing adds time)
• 2016–2021 Honda Civic 1.5T (ICE): $4,500–$8,500 installed (turbo + direct injection)
• 2017–2022 Chevrolet Silverado 5.3L (ICE): $6,000–$10,500 installed (V8 and truck labor)
• 2019–2024 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid front traction motor: $3,200–$6,000 installed
• 2018–2023 Tesla Model 3 rear drive unit/motor: $5,000–$9,500 installed (varies widely with source and warranty)

Note that in EVs, high repair bills often come from battery packs, not motors. Traction motors fail less frequently than ICE engines but can be costly if replacement drive units are only available as assemblies.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

A precise estimate requires vehicle specifics and the exact component. Ask shops to itemize parts, labor hours, and warranties.

1. Provide VIN, mileage, and a clear symptom/failure description.
2. Request part type: used, rebuilt/reman, or new OEM—plus core charges and shipping.
3. Ask for labor hours and hourly rate; confirm if subframe drop or engine-out procedures are needed.
4. Verify inclusions: fluids, gaskets, mounts, belts, sensors, programming, taxes, shop supplies.
5. Compare warranties: parts and labor coverage length and who administers claims.
6. Get two to three written quotes from reputable shops or dealers.

A thorough, line-item estimate prevents surprises and helps compare apples to apples across shops.

Cost-Saving Tips and Red Flags

Smart sourcing and careful vetting can trim costs while avoiding poor-quality repairs.

• Consider remanufactured units with strong warranties for a balance of price and reliability.
• Check used engines with compression/leak-down results and verified mileage if possible.
• Bundle preventive items (water pump, thermostat, hoses, plugs) while the engine is out to save future labor.
• Beware unusually low quotes that omit programming, fluids, or warranty—these costs may appear later.
• Confirm shop experience with your specific model, especially for turbo, diesel, hybrid, and EV systems.

Choosing the lowest bid without clarity on parts quality and warranty can cost more in repeat repairs and downtime.

Key Takeaways

Expect $3,500–$12,000+ installed for ICE engine replacement and $4,000–$12,000+ for EV traction motors in 2025, with parts-only ranges much lower but highly variable. The biggest determinants are vehicle type, component source, and labor complexity. Get VIN-specific, itemized quotes and compare warranties to make an informed decision.

Summary

Replacing a “motor” in a car spans a wide cost range: used or remanufactured ICE engines commonly total $3,500–$12,000 installed, while EV traction motors average $4,000–$12,000 installed. Your final price depends on powertrain type, parts source, labor rates, and the complexity of the job. Obtain detailed, VIN-based estimates with clear parts and labor warranties to avoid surprises and ensure value.

Can I drive a car with a bad motor?

No, you should not drive a car with a bad engine; continuing to drive can cause more extensive and costly damage, and it is unsafe. If your engine has failed or is failing, call for roadside assistance or a tow truck to take your car to a trusted mechanic.
 
Risks of driving with a bad engine:

• Increased damage: Even short distances can cause irreversible damage to components like the combustion chamber or crankshaft, leading to much higher repair bills. 
• Catastrophic failure: A “blown” engine can sometimes continue to run for a short time, but continuing to operate it can lead to total engine seizure, making repairs impossible. 
• Safety hazards: Driving a damaged vehicle is risky. A complete engine failure could cause the car to lose power, potentially leading to an accident. 

What to do if your engine is bad:

1. Stop driving immediately: Do not try to drive the car to a repair shop. 
2. Call for assistance: Contact roadside assistance or a tow truck to transport the vehicle to a mechanic. 
3. Do not delay repairs: Address engine problems as soon as possible to prevent further damage and more expensive repairs. 

How much is it to replace a motor on a car?

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. Low Cost: $600.

How expensive is a car motor?

Engine replacement pricing breakdown

Parts/service	Average cost
New engine (crate or OEM)	$3,000 to $14,000 or more, depending on engine type and vehicle make
Used or rebuilt engine	$600 to $6,000, with used typically on the lower end
Labor	$1,200 to $2,200, based on shop rate and job complexity

Aug 28, 2025

Is it worth replacing a motor in a car?

Replacing a car’s engine is worth it only if the cost of the replacement is significantly less than the value of the car, or if you have an emotional attachment to the vehicle, as it provides a warranty and potentially extends the car’s life. It’s a significant decision that hinges on the car’s overall condition, its market value, the cost of the engine swap, and the availability of warranties on the replacement engine. 
When It May Be Worth It

• Cost vs. Value: If a new engine costs less than half the car’s current value, it could be a sound financial decision. 
• Car’s Condition: The car should be in good overall condition (solid frame, good suspension) to justify the investment. 
• Emotional Attachment: You might choose to replace an engine to keep a car that holds sentimental value. 
• Warranty Benefits: A new or rebuilt engine often comes with a warranty, providing long-term reliability and peace of mind. 
• Environmental Benefits: An engine replacement can be more environmentally friendly than buying a new car, reducing emissions and waste. 

When It Might Not Be Worth It

• Car’s Age and Condition: Opens in new tabIf the vehicle is very old, rusted, or has other major issues, replacing the engine might be “throwing good money after bad”. 
• Cost Exceeds Value: Opens in new tabIf the cost of the engine replacement is more than the car is worth, it’s generally not a good investment. 
• Other Major Repairs: Opens in new tabIf the transmission or other major components are also failing, it may be more sensible to buy a new vehicle. 

Key Factors to Consider

• Engine Cost: Research the cost of a new or rebuilt engine, including parts and labor. 
• Vehicle’s Overall Value: Assess the car’s current market value to see if the replacement is a worthwhile investment. 
• Warranty: Inquire about warranties on both the replacement engine and the repair work itself. 
• Future Costs: Consider if other components might need replacement soon, as this could add to the overall expense. 
• Alternatives: Explore whether a different car or a different type of engine swap is a more viable solution.