How Much Does a Car Engine Cost in 2025?

For most gasoline cars in the U.S., expect an engine to cost roughly $2,500–$10,000 for parts and $1,500–$5,000 for labor, putting a typical installed total around $4,500–$15,000; luxury, performance, and diesel applications can exceed $20,000, while used or remanufactured engines can lower parts costs to $1,500–$6,500. Electric-vehicle drive motors typically run $2,000–$9,000 for parts, but the battery—often $10,000–$20,000+—is a separate expense. Prices vary widely by make, model, engine type, and where you have the work done.

What “Engine Cost” Actually Includes

When people ask how much an engine costs, they’re often comparing different things. A “short block” includes the block, crankshaft, pistons, and rods. A “long block” adds cylinder heads and valvetrain. A “crate engine” is a new or remanufactured unit that may include additional components and is shipped ready to install. On hybrids, the gasoline engine is separate from the electric drive; on EVs, the “engine” is an electric motor and integrated gearbox (drive unit). Quotes may or may not include ancillary parts like gaskets, sensors, turbos, water pumps, belts, fluids, or programming.

Parts-Only Price Ranges in 2025

The following ranges reflect typical retail parts pricing in the U.S. for commonly sourced engines; exact figures depend on the vehicle’s make, model year, engine code, and availability.

• Used gasoline engine (salvage yard/pull-out): $800–$3,500
• Remanufactured gasoline long block: $2,500–$6,500
• New OEM short/long block (dealer): $4,000–$10,000+
• Performance crate V8 (e.g., GM LS, Ford Coyote): $5,000–$20,000+
• Light-duty diesel long block (Cummins/Duramax/Power Stroke): $6,000–$12,000+
• Hybrid gasoline engine (ICE only): $3,500–$8,000
• Electric vehicle drive motor/unit: $2,000–$9,000 (battery, inverter, and harnesses are separate)

For most mainstream cars and crossovers, parts alone land between $2,500 and $7,500; specialty performance and diesel engines command the highest prices, while used units can reduce costs at the expense of warranty coverage and unknown wear.

Labor and Installation

Engine replacement typically requires 12–30+ labor hours depending on packaging (transverse vs. longitudinal), AWD components, and whether major subframes must be dropped. Shop rates vary by region: independent shops commonly charge $110–$180/hour, while dealerships may run $150–$250/hour. That puts labor at roughly $1,500–$5,000+. Add $300–$1,200 for fluids, seals, mounts, belts, cooling components, programming, and shop supplies. Turnaround is usually 1–3 business days once parts are in hand, longer if machine work or backordered parts are involved.

Typical Total Installed Costs by Vehicle Class

Below are indicative “out-the-door” ranges for a replacement engine installed in the U.S. using remanufactured or new assemblies. Local labor rates, parts availability, and tax/fees will affect your final invoice.

• Economy compact (e.g., older Civic/Corolla): $4,500–$8,000
• Mid-size sedan/crossover (2.0–3.5L gas): $6,000–$10,000
• Luxury/performance (turbo/supercharged, European makes): $9,000–$20,000+
• Light-duty diesel pickup: $11,000–$20,000+
• Hybrid engine replacement (ICE only): $6,000–$12,000
• EV drive unit replacement (motor/gearbox only): $3,500–$8,500 installed; battery replacement is separate and far higher

Most mainstream vehicles fall in the middle bands, while high-performance, luxury, and diesel trucks sit at the premium end. EV motor swaps are relatively rare and often covered by drivetrain warranties; the battery is the dominant EV cost if it ever needs replacement.

Key Factors That Drive Price

Multiple variables influence the quote you’ll receive. Understanding them helps explain why two similar-sounding jobs can differ by thousands.

• Make/model and engine rarity: Common engines are cheaper and easier to source.
• Turbocharging/supercharging and diesel complexity: More parts, higher tolerances, higher cost.
• New OEM vs. reman vs. used: New offers OEM pedigree; reman balances cost/warranty; used is cheapest with the least certainty.
• Warranty length: Longer parts/labor warranties add cost; used units often have 30–90 days, remans 2–3 years, some up to 3yr/100k miles.
• Ancillary parts and “while you’re in there” items: Motor mounts, water/oil pumps, timing sets, turbos, hoses, and radiators add up.
• Core charges: Reman suppliers may add $300–$1,500 refundable when your old engine is returned in rebuildable condition.
• Programming and immobilizer pairing: Some late-model vehicles need software, keys, or module coding after replacement.
• Regional labor rates and taxes: Urban/coastal areas and dealers cost more; shop fees and sales tax apply.
• Used engine mileage and documentation: Lower-mileage, tested units cost more; verify compression/leak-down and service history when possible.
• Emissions spec and engine code: CARB vs. federal and exact engine codes must match to avoid fitment and inspection issues.

Clarifying these items in a written estimate reduces surprises and helps you compare quotes apples-to-apples.

Replace, Rebuild, or Move On?

Compare the installed cost to your car’s market value. If the repair exceeds roughly 50–70% of the vehicle’s value, many owners opt to sell or replace the car. Rebuilding the existing engine can be cost-effective if the block and heads are reusable, but machine-shop backlogs can extend downtime. A used engine is fastest/cheapest but carries the most risk. For EVs, motors rarely fail; battery health is the key determinant of long-term cost.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

Use these steps to secure a reliable estimate and avoid scope creep.

1. Start with a proper diagnosis (compression/leak-down, scan data) to confirm the engine is the issue.
2. Record your VIN and engine code to ensure exact fitment and emissions compliance.
3. Decide on used, reman, or new; ask what’s included (long vs. short block, accessories).
4. Get three written, line-item quotes with parts, labor hours, fluids, taxes/fees, and warranty terms.
5. Ask about core charges, programming, break-in procedures, and required follow-up services.
6. For used engines, request mileage, compression/leak-down results, donor VIN, and photos.
7. Confirm parts availability and lead time to plan downtime.

A transparent, itemized proposal helps you compare value beyond just the headline price and reduces the risk of mid-job add-ons.

Real-World Examples (Indicative, 2025)

These examples illustrate common price bands seen at reputable independent shops and dealers; actual quotes depend on your region and vehicle specifics.

• 2016 Toyota Camry 2.5L reman long block: parts $3,400–$4,200; labor 16–20 hours ($2,000–$3,600) — total $6,000–$7,800.
• 2015 Ford F-150 5.0L new crate engine: parts $6,500–$8,500; labor $2,000–$3,500 — total $8,500–$12,000.
• 2018 BMW 330i (2.0T) used low-mile engine: parts $3,500–$5,500; labor $3,000–$4,000 — total $7,000–$9,500.
• 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500HD Duramax reman: parts $9,000–$12,000; labor $3,000–$5,000 — total $12,500–$17,000.
• 2020 Tesla Model 3 rear drive unit (used): parts $3,000–$5,000; labor $1,000–$2,000 — total $4,500–$7,000 (battery not included).

These figures reflect typical ranges for parts and labor in 2025; dealer-only parts or extended warranties can nudge totals higher, while a good used engine from a reputable recycler can pull them lower.

Summary

In 2025, a car engine generally costs $2,500–$10,000 for parts and $1,500–$5,000 for labor, placing most complete replacements between $4,500 and $15,000, with high-performance, luxury, and diesel applications climbing above $20,000. EV drive motors are usually $3,500–$8,500 installed, but the battery—often far more expensive—is separate. Your final price hinges on engine type, sourcing (used vs. reman vs. new), labor rates, and the scope of related parts and programming. Get multiple itemized quotes, verify warranty terms, and weigh the repair against the vehicle’s value before proceeding.

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 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

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 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.