The cost of a new engine can vary widely depending on the type of engine, the make and model of the vehicle, whether it is gas or diesel, the size and horsepower rating, and who is doing the installation. With so many factors involved, it’s impossible to give an exact figure that will apply across the board. However, we can look at the different types of engines, typical costs, and the variables that impact overall pricing to help give a better idea of what to expect.
Types of Engines
There are several basic types of engines used in cars and trucks today:
- Gasoline engines – These are fueled by petrol and are the most common engines found in passenger vehicles. Sizes range from small 4-cylinder engines to large V8s and even V12s for luxury and performance cars. Most consumer vehicles have 4, 6, or 8 cylinder gasoline engines.
- Diesel engines – Diesel engines are fuel efficient and durable but more expensive. They are commonly used for trucks and SUVs. Diesel engines can have 4, 6, or 8 cylinders typically.
- Electric motors – Electric vehicles use electric motors powered by battery packs instead of a gasoline or diesel engine. Installation of a new electric powertrain can be very expensive.
- Hybrid engines – Hybrids combine a gasoline engine with one or more electric motors. They aren’t quite a full electric vehicle but offer increased efficiency over a traditional gasoline engine alone.
The type of engine you need will depend on the make and model of vehicle it is intended for. Consulting the factory specs for your vehicle is the best way to determine what specific engine is recommended and fits properly.
Ballpark Cost Ranges
Here are some approximate ballpark figures for new engine installation costs by type:
- 4 cylinder economy gasoline engine (2.0-2.5L range) – $4,000-$6,000
- 6 cylinder mid-range gasoline engine (3.0-4.0L range) – $5,000-$8,000
- 8 cylinder high-performance gasoline engine (5.0L+ range) – $8,000-$15,000+
- 4 cylinder diesel engine – $6,000-$10,000
- 6 cylinder diesel engine – $10,000-$15,000
- Electric vehicle motor – $10,000-$20,000+ depending on size and range
- Hybrid engine system – $6,000-$15,000 depending on complexity
These figures are just general estimates and should not be taken as fixed prices. There may be engines outside of these typical ranges too. Actual pricing depends on the factors looked at in the following sections.
Variables that Impact Engine Replacement Cost
When budgeting for a new engine, the following variables will impact the total installation cost:
1. Engine Type and Size
Larger, more powerful engines cost more. A V8 will be pricier than a 4-cylinder. Upgrading to a bigger engine than stock will increase costs. Unique engines like diesel, electric motors, and hybrid systems are more expensive than basic gas engines.
2. Make and Model of Vehicle
The make and model of the vehicle determines the selection of replacement engines available. Luxury and performance vehicle brands like Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche require more specialized, expensive engines.
3. New vs Remanufactured/Rebuilt
Brand new engines are the most expensive option. Remanufactured or professionally rebuilt engines offer like-new performance at a lower cost. Salvaged used engines are cheapest but come with more uncertainty.
4. Labor for Installation
In addition to the engine itself, labor time needs to be factored in. Shop hourly rates for experienced mechanics can range from $70-$150 per hour. Engine swaps can take 15 hours or more depending on the vehicle.
5. Customization Work
Upgraded internals, performance modifications, and custom fabrication to fit the engine add to the engine cost. As do emissions compliance upgrades needed in some regions.
6. Warranty Coverage
A longer parts and labor warranty is preferred but adds to the overall expense. A short or no warranty means you save upfront but risk larger future repair bills.
7. Location and Shop Rates
Engine replacement costs can vary by region. In general, urban areas and coastal regions have higher labor rates than rural middle America for example. Shop rates also range widely.
What’s Included in the Engine Replacement Cost?
The total bill to swap a new engine generally includes:
- The engine itself and all attached components
- Labor time for removal of old engine
- Labor time for installation of the new engine
- Misc. new parts, gaskets, seals, fluids, etc.
- Any emissions compliance upgrades as needed
- Disposal fees for old engine
- Taxes on parts
Additional custom work, performance upgrades, or repairs found during the swap would be billed above and beyond the estimate.
How to Get the Best Deal on an Engine Replacement
To get the best value on your engine replacement project, consider these tips:
- Get quotes from multiple shops – prices can vary greatly
- Ask about warranties – longer is better
- Read shop reviews online for quality assessments
- Consider a remanufactured/rebuilt engine to save over new
- Evaluate new vs used vs rebuilt options
- Check pricing online – shops may match or beat
- Inquire about mechanic experience with your type of project
- Check if the shop offers financing options
- Ask what is included in the quote – get full breakdown
Taking the time to research and evaluate the full costs, shop options, and engine choices will help get the best deal on your replacement engine.
Sample Engine Replacement Cost Quotes
To give a sense for real-world pricing, here are some sample quotes for common engine replacement jobs:
Honda Civic 4-Cylinder Engine Replacement
- Old Engine: 1.8L 4-cylinder
- New Engine: Rebuilt 1.8L 4-cylinder
- Total Cost: $3,850
- Engine: $2,500
- Labor: $850
- Misc. Parts + Tax: $500
- Warranty: 3 year, unlimited mileage, parts and labor
Toyota Tacoma V6 Engine Replacement
- Old Engine: 4.0L V6
- New Engine: Reconditioned 4.0L V6
- Total Cost: $6,225
- Engine: $3,950
- Labor: $1,575
- Misc. Parts + Tax: $700
- Warranty: 1 year, 12,000 mile major components
BMW 328i Straight-6 Engine Replacement
- Old Engine: 2.0L turbo straight-6
- New Engine: New 2.0L turbo straight-6
- Total Cost: $11,850
- Engine: $8,500
- Labor: $2,500
- Misc. Parts + Tax: $850
- Warranty: 2 year, 24,000 mile comprehensive
These examples illustrate how engine replacement costs scale across economy, mid-range, and luxury vehicles. More specialized engines and more complex labor means higher overall pricing.
Cost Comparison of Engine Rebuild vs Replacement
In some cases rebuilding the existing engine may be an option. Here’s how a rebuild compares to a new engine replacement:
Engine Rebuild
- Cost: $2,000-$4,500+ depending on engine
- Labor: $1,000-$2,500
- Parts: $1,000-$2,000
- Benefits: preserves original engine, retains fit
- Drawbacks: rebuild quality varies, limited warranty
New Engine Replacement
- Cost: $4,000-$15,000+ depending on engine
- Benefits: engine is new or remanufactured to spec, often better warranty
- Drawbacks: higher cost, some fabrication may be needed
In general, a rebuild costs 50-75% of a new engine. The savings comes with more variability in quality. Replacing is more expensive but provides a reliable, warrantied engine.
Conclusion
The cost to replace an engine can range from as low as $3,000-$4,000 for an economy 4-cylinder engine up to $15,000 or more for higher-end import and luxury vehicles. Typical gas engines fall in the $4,000-$8,000 range while diesels are $6,000-$15,000 depending on size and application. Electric and hybrid engines run $10,000-$20,000. Many factors impact costs including engine type, vehicle make and model, who performs the work, and warranty coverage. While not inexpensive, a professionally installed new or remanufactured engine provides reliability and peace of mind. With proper research and shopping, you can get the best deal on your engine replacement project.