How much does a mechanic charge to replace a camshaft?

On average, you should plan for about $800 to $2,500 in total, with dealer quotes sometimes higher. The final bill depends on your vehicle, the parts chosen, and the shop’s hourly rate.

What goes into the cost

Costs are driven by parts, labor, and the engine’s design. Here's what typically adds to the price:

• Parts: camshaft itself, timing components (timing belt/chain, guides, tensioners), seals and gaskets, and possibly a water pump or sensors.


• Labor: the amount of time the mechanic must spend, which varies by engine layout and whether the timing cover needs partial or full removal.


• Additional services: brand-new timing kit, water pump, crankshaft or cylinder head work if damage is found, or replacing related components.


• Vehicle-specific factors: whether the engine is interference (high risk if timing goes off) and how accessible the camshaft is.


• Regional pricing: shop rates differ by region, and dealer service centers typically charge more than independent shops.

In practice, the total can swing widely because some engines require a straightforward timing belt replacement while others require full engine disassembly.

Typical price ranges

Prices vary by engine type, location, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. The following ranges reflect common scenarios.

• Economy inline-four engines (timing belt, easier access): $800 to $1,400 total.


• Most mid-range engines (timing chain with guides, moderate access): $1,000 to $2,000.


• Complex or luxury engines (tight spaces, chain systems, additional components, or dealer work): $1,800 to $3,000+.

Shop around and get multiple written quotes, as labor hours and parts choices can significantly affect the price.

How to save on camshaft replacement costs

Before you commit, consider these money-saving steps:

• Compare quotes from several independent shops and a dealership to see which offers the best value.


• Ask for a breakdown of parts: aftermarket vs OEM, and whether the timing kit is included.


• Inquire about bundled services, like replacing the water pump or seals at the same time to avoid future labor charges.


• Check for warranties on parts and labor; sometimes paying more upfront yields better long-term coverage.

Proactive planning can reduce the risk of unexpected repairs if a camshaft replacement reveals secondary needs.

What to ask your mechanic

When requesting a quote, ensure you ask about the following to avoid surprises:

• Which parts are included and what substitutes are allowed.


• Estimated labor time and hourly rate, plus any diagnostic fees.


• Whether timing components are replaced, and if timing belts/chains are synchronized with tensioners and guides.


• Warranty coverage for both parts and labor, and troubleshooting steps if the engine fails to start after installation.

Clear questions help you compare apples-to-apples quotes and prevent hidden charges.

Summary

Camshaft replacement is a mid-to-high-cost repair that hinges on engine design, part choices, and labor rates. For many cars, budgeting roughly $800 to $2,500 for parts and labor is reasonable, though some shops and certain vehicles can push costs higher. Getting multiple written estimates and understanding exactly what is included can save you money and avoid surprises.

How long does it take a mechanic to replace a camshaft?

A camshaft replacement can take between 6 and 12 hours for most circumstances, and depending on your location, mechanics may charge $75 to $150 per hour.

Is it better to repair or replace a camshaft?

Repairing a camshaft is just about impossible . If a cam is worn down or broken it needs to be replaced. Camshafts are relatively inexpensive compared to the labor involved in replacement. Lifters are typically replaced when installing a new cam. A thorough inspection of other engine components is also necessary .

How expensive is it to replace a camshaft?

Replacing a camshaft costs an average of $1,000 to $2,500, but can range from $500 to over $7,000 depending on the vehicle and any additional repairs needed. Factors like labor costs, engine complexity, and the need to replace associated parts like the timing belt, lifters, or oil seal significantly impact the final price. 
This video explains the cost factors for replacing a camshaft position sensor: 1mTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Mar 29, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Average total cost: $1,000 to $2,500, including parts and labor. 
• High-end total cost: Can reach $5,000 to over $7,000 for more complex jobs or luxury vehicles, with labor making up a large portion of the cost. 
• Parts cost: Roughly $700, but can be lower or higher depending on the specific parts and vehicle. 
• Labor cost: Typically the most expensive part of the repair. Labor rates vary by location and shop, and the job can take 10 hours or more. 

Factors that influence the price

• Vehicle make and model: More complex or high-performance engines are more expensive to work on. 
• Associated parts: During a camshaft replacement, it is often necessary to replace other parts that are more affordable to swap at the same time. These include: 
  • Lifters: $200–$500 
  • Timing belt or chain: $300–$500 
  • Camshaft seal: $100–$300 
  • Camshaft sensors: $50–$200 
• Labor rates: Hourly labor rates vary by location and the mechanic's expertise. 
• OEM vs. aftermarket parts: Choosing Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts is often more expensive than aftermarket options. 
• Engine configuration: In-line engines can be simpler and cheaper to work on than V6 or V8 engines. 

What to consider

• Combine repairs: Replacing other components while the engine is already dismantled can save on future labor costs, but increases the immediate price. 
• Get multiple quotes: Obtain quotes from different mechanics, such as a dealership and a local independent shop, to compare prices and services. 
• Consider other options: Depending on the age and condition of your vehicle, a complete engine replacement might be a more cost-effective solution in the long run. 

You can watch this video to see a camshaft and lifter replacement on a GM truck: 54sDanny Johnson’s GarageYouTube · Oct 21, 2023

Can you drive a car with a bad camshaft?

No, you cannot safely drive a car with a bad camshaft, and it is strongly recommended to avoid driving it altogether to prevent catastrophic engine damage and potential accidents. While the car may still run, driving with a failing camshaft can lead to severe internal engine damage, increased fuel consumption, poor performance, and the risk of the engine suddenly and completely failing while you are driving. It is best to tow the vehicle to a mechanic for immediate inspection and repair.
 
This video explains what happens when you drive with a bad camshaft sensor: 42s4 Old School Car GuysYouTube · Aug 20, 2024
Risks of driving with a bad camshaft 
This video shows what happens when you drive with a bad camshaft sensor: 59sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Jul 23, 2022

• Catastrophic engine damage: A broken or failing camshaft can cause valves to collide with pistons, leading to bent valves, damaged pistons, and a complete engine rebuild or replacement. 
• Sudden engine failure: The engine can stall or fail unexpectedly, especially at low speeds or while stopping, which can cause an accident. 
• Poor performance: You will likely experience a significant loss of power, poor acceleration, and rough idling. 
• Increased fuel consumption: The engine's inefficiency can lead to higher fuel usage. 
• Damage to other components: Unburnt fuel can get into the exhaust, damaging the catalytic converter, and other internal engine parts can be stressed or damaged over time. 

What to do if your car has a bad camshaft 
You can watch this video to see the symptoms of a bad camshaft sensor: 56sCar Care CluesYouTube · Nov 6, 2024

• Stop driving immediately: Do not attempt to drive the vehicle. The risk of further damage and a sudden breakdown is too high. 
• Arrange for a tow: Have the vehicle towed to a qualified mechanic for a professional diagnosis and repair. 
• Prepare for replacement: A camshaft is typically not repaired; it needs to be replaced. A replacement camshaft and labor can be expensive, so it's important to address the issue before more extensive damage occurs.