How long does it take to repair a camshaft?
The repair or replacement of a camshaft in a typical passenger car usually spans several hours of labor, commonly about 4 to 12 hours in a shop. The exact duration depends on the engine design, accessibility, and whether additional work such as timing chain replacement, head work, or engine removal is required.
Camshaft work can range from a straightforward inspection or reconditioning to a full replacement, which may involve timing systems, valve gear, and possible engine disassembly. Time estimates vary by vehicle model, technician experience, and parts availability, so a detailed quote from a shop is essential for an accurate timeline.
What factors affect repair time
Several key factors determine how long a camshaft job will take. Here's a breakdown of the main drivers.
- Engine design and configuration (single-cam SOHC vs. dual/quad-cam DOHC, and whether it uses variable valve timing)
- Accessibility of the camshaft and front covers (timing belt/chain area, timing gear train routing, and whether the head/s engine mount must be moved)
- Whether the camshaft is in a head or the engine block, and if head removal or engine removal is required
- Extent of wear or damage and whether machining, regrinding, or new cam bearings are needed
- Need for accompanying parts (timing chain/belt kit, tensioners, guides, valve springs, seals)
- Interference vs non-interference engine design (risk of valve-to-piston contact if timing is off)
- Labor rates, shop workflow, and the availability of OEM or aftermarket parts
In practice, these factors combine to push the duration up or down. A simple camshaft swap on an easy-to-access engine will be faster; a complex DOHC/VVT setup on an interference engine with engine removal will be much longer.
Typical timeframes by engine configuration
These ranges reflect common configurations in modern cars and trucks, using typical service shop practices. Real-world times vary by vehicle and technician.
- Simple camshaft replacement on a single-cam, inline-four engine with easy access and no head removal: 4–6 hours
- DOHC engines, multiple camshafts, or engines with variable valve timing requiring timing chain/tensioner work: 6–10 hours
- Engines with front covers that require removal or more complex timing systems (V6/V8, transverse layouts): 6–12 hours
- Interference engines requiring head removal or engine removal for access: 8–14 hours (often spread over 1–2 days)
- Engines requiring machining or reconditioning (cam bearing work, head work, or cam regrind): 12–24 hours
While these ranges cover many cases, the exact duration will depend on the specific engine, required parts, and whether the job involves engine removal or extensive head work. Always obtain a detailed, model-specific quote before starting.
DIY vs professional shop considerations
Camshaft work is typically best handled by a professional shop due to the precision timing required and the risk of severe engine damage if timed incorrectly. If you have specialized tools, solid mechanical experience, and a thorough service manual, a knowledgeable hobbyist might save on labor—but be prepared for a longer overall job time and potential extra costs if complications arise.
Summary
Repairing or replacing a camshaft is a multi-hour repair that depends heavily on engine design, access, and the scope of work. Expect roughly 4–12 hours for common passenger cars, with longer timelines for complex engines, engines with timing-chain systems, or when engine removal and head work are necessary. Always get a model-specific estimate from a qualified technician and consider potential additional costs for parts and machining.
