How Much Will It Cost to Replace My Engine?

Engine replacement typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000 for most modern cars, but the final price can range from about $1,500 to well over $15,000 depending on your vehicle, the type of engine, labor rates, and whether you use a new, rebuilt, or used engine. Understanding what drives that range is crucial before committing to such a major repair.

Why Engine Replacement Costs Vary So Widely

Engine replacement is one of the most complex and expensive repairs a vehicle can need. The cost is shaped by your car’s make and model, the availability of engines, and the amount of labor needed. Newer vehicles, luxury brands, and trucks or SUVs often cost more to repair, especially when specialized technology or tight engine bays are involved.

Typical Price Ranges for Engine Replacement

The numbers can be overwhelming, but most engine replacements fall into a few broad price brackets that depend on how you source the engine and the type of vehicle you drive.

• Economy cars (compact/small sedans): Roughly $3,000–$5,000 total
• Mid-range sedans and crossovers: About $3,500–$6,500 total
• Trucks and SUVs (gas engines): Usually $4,000–$8,000 total
• Luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Lexus, etc.): Commonly $6,000–$12,000+ total
• High-performance or specialty vehicles: Can exceed $10,000–$15,000
• Hybrids and EVs (battery/e-drive units): More variable; hybrid engine-only swaps may be $4,000–$8,000, while EV drive systems or battery packs can cost $8,000–$20,000+

These ranges combine parts and labor, and they represent common market prices at reputable independent shops or dealers; specific quotes can still land outside these bands based on your location and vehicle condition.

The Biggest Cost Factors in an Engine Replacement

Several key elements determine whether your engine replacement lands at the lower or upper end of the spectrum, and understanding them will help you interpret any quote you receive.

1. New vs. Used vs. Rebuilt Engines

The single biggest driver of cost is the type of replacement engine you choose or are offered. Each option carries different price points, risk levels, and warranties.

• Brand-new (crate) engines: Typically $4,000–$10,000+ just for the engine, depending on brand and displacement. These are new from the manufacturer or an authorized rebuilder, usually with strong warranties (3 years or more, often mileage-limited).
• Rebuilt/remanufactured engines: Roughly $2,500–$5,500 for many mainstream vehicles. The engine is disassembled, worn parts are replaced, and it’s reassembled to meet or approach factory specs. Warranties vary, often 1–3 years.
• Used (salvage/junkyard) engines: Commonly $800–$3,000 for the part itself, depending on mileage and rarity. Shorter warranties are typical (30 days to 1 year). This is usually the cheapest option but also the riskiest if history is unclear.

In many cases, a remanufactured engine hits the middle ground—more expensive than used but safer and more predictable, especially for owners planning to keep the car for several years.

2. Labor Costs and Shop Rates

Once you have an engine, the labor to install it can significantly affect your bill. Labor is measured in hours and multiplied by the shop’s hourly rate.

• Labor hours: Engine swaps typically take 10–20+ hours. Compact cars with accessible engine bays may be on the lower end, while AWD vehicles, trucks, or tightly packaged modern cars can approach or exceed 20 hours.
• Hourly rates: Independent shops often charge $90–$150 per hour in many U.S. regions; dealership rates can be $140–$250+ per hour in some metro areas.
• Complexity: Turbocharged engines, hybrids, vehicles with extensive electronics, or those needing subframe removal usually demand more time—and money.

Adding up labor hours and hourly rates explains why two similar-looking vehicles can have dramatically different installation costs.

3. Make, Model, and Age of Your Vehicle

The vehicle itself strongly influences the final price because it determines both parts availability and labor complexity.

• Common mainstream models (Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Ford F-150, etc.): Engines are widely available, often at lower prices, with plentiful aftermarket options and clear service procedures.
• European and luxury vehicles: Engines and parts tend to be expensive, and labor can be higher due to specialized procedures and diagnostics.
• Older cars (15–20+ years): Engines may be cheaper used, but availability declines, and compatibility concerns can arise. Sometimes rebuilding your existing engine is preferred.
• Newer cars (still under factory powertrain warranty): If the failure is covered, costs may be partially or fully absorbed by the manufacturer.

Knowing your car’s segment and brand reputation for parts pricing can help you anticipate whether your replacement will skew toward the lower or higher end of typical ranges.

4. Additional Parts and “While You’re In There” Repairs

Engine replacement rarely involves just the engine block itself. Many related components may need replacement or are smart to change proactively while the engine is out.

• Common add-on parts: Motor mounts, belts, hoses, gaskets, sensors, ignition components (plugs, coils), water pump, and thermostat.
• Fluids and consumables: Coolant, engine oil, filters, and potentially transmission fluid or power steering fluid.
• Machine work or diagnostics: Cleaning or resurfacing components, scanning and reprogramming ECUs, and test drives to confirm everything works.

These extras can easily add several hundred to over a thousand dollars to the bill, but they often prevent future breakdowns and take advantage of the easier access while everything is apart.

5. Geographic Location

Where you live can dramatically influence costs, largely due to differences in shop rates and parts pricing.

• High-cost regions (e.g., major coastal cities): Expect higher labor rates, often adding $500–$1,500 compared with smaller markets.
• Rural or low-cost areas: Lower hourly rates can reduce total costs, though access to specialized shops or certain engine types may be limited.
• Import vs. domestic support: In some areas, parts and expertise for certain brands (often European or less common imports) are harder to find and therefore pricier.

Two identical jobs on the same car can differ by thousands of dollars solely because of regional cost differences and local competition.

Sample Cost Scenarios for Common Vehicles

Realistic scenarios can help you compare your situation and set expectations before getting formal quotes from shops.

• 10-year-old compact sedan (e.g., Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic): A remanufactured engine plus labor might land in the $3,500–$5,000 range at an independent shop, assuming no unusual complications.
• Full-size pickup truck (e.g., Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado): A V6 or V8 replacement often costs $4,500–$8,000, especially if towing use demands a higher-quality engine option.
• European luxury sedan (e.g., BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class): Engine replacement can easily reach $7,000–$12,000+ depending on model year and whether you choose new, remanufactured, or used.
• Hybrid vehicle (e.g., Toyota Prius): Replacing the gasoline engine itself is often $4,000–$7,000; full hybrid system or battery replacements follow separate cost structures.

These examples are indicative rather than definitive; actual quotes will reflect the specific engine code, mileage, parts availability, and the shop doing the work.

Is It Worth Replacing the Engine—or Should You Replace the Car?

Beyond the price, you have a strategic decision: invest in a major repair or move on to another vehicle. The right choice depends on value, condition, and your long-term plans.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself

Evaluating whether an engine replacement makes financial sense means weighing repair costs against what the car is worth and how long you plan to keep it.

• What is the car’s current market value if it were running? Compare the engine replacement cost to this number; if the repair is close to or above that value, it may not be economically rational.
• What is the overall condition? If the transmission, suspension, body, and interior are in excellent condition, replacing the engine may effectively “reset” the car’s lifespan.
• Do you still owe money on the car? Walking away from a financed vehicle with a dead engine can be difficult; a repair could be cheaper than taking a loss or rolling negative equity into a new loan.
• What are your alternative costs? Compare the engine job to the price of buying a comparable replacement car, factoring in taxes, fees, and potential higher insurance costs.

If the engine replacement is significantly cheaper than purchasing a similar used car—and you trust the rest of the vehicle—repairing can be the more economical route, especially if you plan to drive it for several more years.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate for Your Engine Replacement

Because of the many variables, the only way to know your true cost is to get detailed quotes. Careful communication and comparison can save you from unpleasant surprises.

Information You Should Gather First

Having complete and accurate details ready helps shops give you realistic, itemized estimates rather than rough guesses.

• Year, make, model, and engine size: Include trim level and whether the car is AWD, FWD, or RWD.
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): This lets shops confirm the exact engine code and compatible replacements.
• Symptoms and history: Describe what happened (overheating, oil loss, knocking) and any prior work or maintenance records.
• Preference on engine type: Indicate whether you’re open to used, rebuilt, or only new engines, and ask what the shop recommends.

The more specific you are up front, the more accurate and comparable your quotes will be, allowing you to make a clear-eyed decision.

What to Look For in a Shop’s Quote

Not all estimates are structured the same way. Reviewing the details carefully helps you compare true costs rather than just headline numbers.

• Separate line items: Engine cost, labor, additional parts, fluids, and taxes should be broken out.
• Engine source and mileage: For used engines, ask how many miles are on it and where it comes from. For reman units, ask who did the rebuilding.
• Warranty terms: Note both the length and what is actually covered—parts only or parts and labor, and whether installation must be at that shop.
• Potential extra costs: Ask about possible surprises, such as damaged wiring, corroded hardware, or compatibility issues, and how those will be handled.

Clear, itemized quotes and transparent warranty policies are often better indicators of a trustworthy shop than a rock-bottom initial price.

Ways to Reduce the Cost—Without Cutting Critical Corners

While engine replacement will almost always be costly, certain strategies can keep expenses in check without sacrificing safety or reliability.

Smart Cost-Saving Strategies

Looking for the lowest number on paper can backfire; instead, use targeted approaches that reduce cost but preserve long-term value.

• Consider a quality remanufactured engine: It often offers a good balance of cost, reliability, and warranty compared with both new and unknown used engines.
• Use a reputable independent shop: Labor rates are typically lower than at dealerships, and many independents have extensive experience with engine swaps.
• Ask about sourced used engines with verified history: If your budget is tight, a used engine with documented mileage and compression tests is safer than the cheapest option with no records.
• Bundle preventive maintenance: Replacing cheap items (belts, hoses, water pump) during the swap can prevent separate future labor bills.

The goal is not just to lower today’s bill, but to avoid paying for major related repairs again in the near term because of corner-cutting.

Summary

Replacing an engine is a major financial decision, with typical costs ranging from about $3,000 to $7,000 for many vehicles and potential totals climbing far higher for luxury, performance, or complex models. The final price depends on your car’s make and model, the type of replacement engine (new, rebuilt, or used), local labor rates, and the additional parts required to complete the job properly. To know what it will cost in your specific case, gather your vehicle details, request detailed, itemized quotes from multiple reputable shops, and weigh the repair cost against your car’s value and overall condition. In many situations, especially when the rest of the car is sound, a well-executed engine replacement can be more economical than buying another vehicle—and can extend your car’s useful life by many years.

Is it worth replacing the engine in a car?

Replacing an engine is worth it if the car is in otherwise good condition, the repair cost is significantly less than buying a new car, and the car has sentimental or other value beyond its resale price. However, it is often not worth it for older vehicles, cars with significant rust or other problems, or if the replacement cost approaches the vehicle’s market value. 
This video explains the cost of engine replacement and the factors that affect it: 1mAaron On AutosYouTube · Dec 23, 2024
When it is worth it

• Your car is relatively new or in excellent shape: If the rest of the vehicle is in good condition, a new engine can extend its life significantly. 
• You have sentimental value for the car: If it’s a family heirloom or has a special meaning, replacing the engine can be a good way to keep it running. 
• The cost is much lower than a new car: For many people, replacing the engine is a more affordable way to get a reliable vehicle than buying a new one. 
• Your vehicle is under warranty: If your car is still under warranty, the engine replacement will likely be covered at little or no cost to you. 
• Insurance will cover the cost: If your insurance policy covers the replacement, it can be a very cost-effective solution. 

You can watch this video to learn the pros and cons of replacing an engine versus buying a new one: 1mDeBoer’s AutoYouTube · Feb 19, 2019
When it may not be worth it

• The car is old or in poor condition: If the vehicle is 15-20 years old or has significant rust and other issues, the cost of a new engine might not be a good investment. 
• The engine replacement cost is too high: A major engine swap can cost anywhere from $5,000$ 5 comma 000$5,000 to over $10,000$ 10 comma 000$10,000, so if this cost is close to or exceeds the car’s value, it may not be worthwhile. 
• Other major components are failing: If your car’s transmission, or other major parts have high mileage, they may need replacement soon, adding to the overall cost. 
• The engine failure was due to neglect: If the engine failed because of neglect, the rest of the car might be in poor condition and also require extensive repairs. 

Alternatives to replacing the engine

• Rebuild the engine: Rebuilding can be a cheaper option, but it’s not always guaranteed and might not be as reliable as a replacement engine. 
• Buy a different used car: If the car is older and needs a lot of work, it may be cheaper to buy a different used vehicle. 
• Junk the vehicle: If the car is too old and expensive to repair, it may be better to sell it for scrap and buy a new one. 

Is it cheaper to buy a new engine or rebuild it?

It is usually cheaper to rebuild an engine than to buy a completely new one, as a rebuild uses the existing engine block and only replaces or repairs damaged parts. However, a new or remanufactured engine may be the better option if the existing engine is severely damaged or if the cost of the rebuild, including labor and potential parts, approaches the price of a replacement. The final decision depends on the extent of the engine’s damage and the cost comparison for your specific vehicle. 
Rebuilding the engine

• Pros:
  • Can be significantly cheaper than buying a brand new engine because it uses many of your existing parts. 
  • Keeps the original engine in your vehicle, which can be beneficial for vehicles that are rare, unique, or have sentimental value. 
  • Can potentially restore better performance and fuel economy than the worn-out engine had before. 
• Cons:
  • The cost can escalate if there is extensive damage to critical components like the block or cylinder heads. 
  • May require additional time for the rebuild, which adds costs for a rental car. 
  • Can be a complex process with a risk of mistakes that could cause further damage. 

Buying a new or remanufactured engine

• Pros:
  • Often comes with a warranty, providing more peace of mind. 
  • A remanufactured engine is a reliable option that is often cheaper than a brand-new engine. 
  • Less downtime compared to a full rebuild process. 
• Cons:
  • New engines are typically the most expensive option. 
  • A used engine can be a cheaper option, but there is a significant risk because you don’t know its history. 

How to decide

• Get a professional diagnosis: Have a mechanic assess the extent of the damage to your engine to determine what needs to be replaced.
• Compare quotes: Get quotes for both a rebuild and a replacement (either remanufactured or used) to see which is more cost-effective.
• Consider the vehicle’s value: If the vehicle is old or has high mileage, the cost of a rebuild might not be worth it, especially if other major components are nearing the end of their life. 

How much should it cost to replace an engine?

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

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