How much does EFI conversion cost?

EFI conversion costs typically range from about $1,000 to $6,000, depending on kit type, vehicle, and whether you install it yourself or hire a shop.

This article breaks down what drives the price, outlines typical price bands for different EFI configurations, and offers budgeting tips for enthusiasts considering carburetor-to-EFI upgrades.

What influences the cost

Costs vary by kit type, labor, vehicle, and tuning needs. The main factors to understand before buying are:

• Kit type and complexity: throttle-body EFI versus multi-port or sequential systems, plus whether the kit includes a standalone ECU or relies on a dedicated engine-control unit.


• DIY versus professional installation: doing the work yourself saves labor but requires mechanical and wiring skills; shop installations include labor and often dyno tuning but add to the bill.


• Vehicle and mounting complexity: engines with unusual manifolds, fuel-delivery constraints, or difficult-to-access fuel tanks can increase labor time and parts needs.


• Fuel system upgrades: pumps, regulators, lines, and return systems may be required to support the chosen EFI setup, adding cost.


• ECU and tuning: standalone ECUs and professional calibration add to the price; some kits include base maps, others require a tuner's services.


• Labor rates and location: urban areas and specialty shops typically charge more per hour.


• Included hardware: injectors, sensors, wiring harnesses, mounting hardware, and adapters vary between kits and affect pricing.


• Warranty and support: brands differ in warranty length and customer support, which can influence cost.

In summary, the overall price is a function of kit sophistication, the need for fuel-system upgrades, and the level of professional support you choose.

Typical price ranges

Prices below reflect common market offerings as of 2024–2025 and are meant to help readers plan a budget. Real-world quotes vary by region, vendor, and vehicle type.

1. Budget DIY throttle-body EFI kit: roughly $700–$1,400. Examples include entry-level throttle-body EFI systems; prices vary by brand and injector size.


2. Throttle-body kit installed by a shop (basic installation, no major retrofits): roughly $1,500–$3,000 total. Kit cost plus labor and basic setup.


3. Basic multi-point EFI kit installed with tuning: roughly $2,000–$4,500 total. Includes kit, labor, and initial calibration; dyno tuning may be extra.


4. Mid-range multi-port/sequential EFI with dyno tuning: roughly $3,000–$6,000 total. Higher-end injectors, sensors, and refined tuning.


5. High-end or custom EFI with extensive dyno tuning: roughly $5,000–$10,000+ total. For performance builds or unique engines, with comprehensive support.

Note: Final prices often include installation labor, wiring, sensors, and a basic tune; always confirm inclusions and any additional costs with the seller or shop before committing.

Summary

EFI conversion pricing ranges widely depending on kit type, installation method, and tuning needs. For most enthusiasts, budget-minded approaches with DIY throttle-body kits start around $700–$1,400, while professional installations of basic kits typically total $1,500–$3,000. More sophisticated multi-port or sequential EFI systems with dyno tuning generally run $3,000–$6,000, and top-tier setups can exceed $10,000 when targeting high-performance engines. Always get a written estimate and clarify what’s included to avoid hidden costs.

Does EFI add horsepower?

No, a simple swap from a carburetor to an EFI system doesn't always increase horsepower, and can sometimes even result in a slight decrease. However, EFI systems provide more consistent and optimal fuel delivery, which allows for better performance through custom tuning and can significantly boost horsepower, especially on modified engines, along with other benefits like better fuel economy and reliability. 
When a simple swap doesn't add power

• A direct swap to a basic EFI throttle body on the same manifold will likely offer little to no horsepower gain. 
• The original engine's design and air intake are the primary limiting factors for horsepower, not just the fuel delivery method. 

How EFI contributes to increased performance

• Precise fuel metering: EFI systems electronically control the fuel-air mixture more precisely than a carburetor, ensuring the engine receives the ideal amount of fuel for any given condition. 
• Customizable tuning: EFI allows for detailed customization to meet specific engine requirements, such as elevation changes, different driving habits, or after-market engine parts like cams, cylinder heads, or turbochargers. 
• Better throttle response and efficiency: By providing the correct fuel mixture at all times, EFI can improve throttle response, fuel economy, and reliability compared to a carburetor. 
• Improved engine performance: When the entire system is optimized, EFI can lead to a significant increase in power, torque, and responsiveness. 

Can you convert a carbureted engine to EFI?

Yes, you can convert a carburetor to fuel injection, and it is often done to improve performance and fuel efficiency. The conversion typically involves installing a new fuel injection system using a kit, which includes replacing the carburetor with a throttle body, adding a high-pressure fuel pump, and installing an electronic control unit (ECU) and wiring. The process requires modifications to the engine's fuel system and tuning the ECU for optimal performance.
 
Key components for conversion

• Fuel Injection Kit: These kits provide the necessary parts and instructions, and their availability varies depending on the vehicle. 
• Throttle Body: The carburetor is replaced by a throttle body that houses the fuel injectors. 
• Fuel Pump: A high-pressure electric fuel pump is required, which is a significant upgrade from the low-pressure pump for a carburetor. 
• Fuel Lines: New fuel lines must be run to handle the higher pressure. 
• Electronic Control Unit (ECU): The ECU is the "brain" of the system, controlling fuel delivery based on sensor data. 
• Sensors: Various sensors, such as an oxygen sensor, are needed to provide data to the ECU. 

This video explains the components of a fuel injection system and how to convert from a carburetor: 59sDIYGarage bryangregorytvYouTube · Apr 24, 2017
The conversion process

1. Upgrade the fuel system: This involves replacing the fuel tank and installing a high-pressure fuel pump. Some systems use in-tank pumps, while others use external pumps. 
2. Install the new hardware: Mount the throttle body in place of the carburetor. Run the new fuel lines and install the ECU, sensors, and wiring harness. 
3. Wire the system: Connect the ECU to power, sensors, and the fuel pump according to the kit's instructions. 
4. Tune the ECU: This is a critical step to ensure the system runs correctly. The ECU needs to be calibrated for your specific engine's needs. 

Considerations

• Complexity: While kits simplify the process, it is a complex job that requires mechanical and electrical knowledge. 
• Cost: The cost can range from around $1,000$ 1 comma 000$1,000 to over $4,000$ 4 comma 000$4,000 depending on the complexity of the system you choose, notes this Facebook post. 
• Compatibility: Ensure the kit is compatible with your specific engine and vehicle. Some older or less common engines may require a custom manifold if a direct kit isn't available, says this Quora post. 

This video demonstrates the process of converting a carburetor to fuel injection, including the wiring and fuel line setup: 59sSummit RacingYouTube · Aug 11, 2023

Which EFI conversion kit is best?

The best EFI conversion kit depends on your specific needs, with popular choices including Holley Sniper, Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4, and MSD Atomic for their self-tuning capabilities and ease of installation. For a straightforward, bolt-on system, the Holley Sniper is a strong contender, while the Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4 is praised for its self-learning capabilities and extensive base map library. More advanced users might consider Holley's Terminator systems for greater control over big-block engines. 
Popular options for EFI conversion kits
This video provides an overview of different EFI conversion kits: 58sR.S. RestorationsYouTube · Jun 18, 2024

• Holley Sniper: A popular, self-tuning, throttle body injection (TBI) system that acts as a direct replacement for a carburetor. 
  • Pros: Simple installation, built-in self-learning with a touchscreen, and a wide range of versions available (like the Sniper 2) for different power levels. 
  • Cons: May require professional tuning for optimal performance, as the self-tuning is a starting point. 
• Edelbrock Pro-Flo 4: A comprehensive system that includes a self-learning ECU with pre-loaded, dyno-tuned calibrations for popular engines. 
  • Pros: A complete system that can get the engine running immediately and then fine-tunes itself as you drive. 
  • Cons: Can be more expensive than other options. 
• MSD Atomic: A TBI system known for its self-tuning capabilities and ease of installation, often compared to Holley and FiTech. 
• FiTech: A throttle body injection system that is praised for its self-tuning features and is often considered a strong alternative to the Holley Sniper. 

Important considerations

• Throttle Body Injection (TBI) vs. Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPFI): TBI systems like Holley Sniper and Edelbrock are simpler, bolting onto a stock intake manifold, while MPFI systems are more complex and offer more precise fuel delivery but require more work and cost. 
• Fuel System: All EFI conversions require a fuel system that can deliver a consistent pressure, usually around 585858 PSI. This often means upgrading or replacing your fuel tank, installing an in-tank fuel pump, and adding a high-quality fuel filter and pressure regulator. 
• Tuning: While many systems are "self-learning," the initial map is a baseline. For maximum performance and drivability, professional tuning or learning to tune the system yourself is often recommended. 
• Engine and Vehicle Compatibility: Ensure the system is compatible with your specific engine (e.g., big-block, V8, 4-cylinder) and vehicle transmission type. 
• Advanced Systems: More advanced systems, like Holley's Terminator X or Dominator, offer greater control and are better suited for larger engines or custom setups. 

Is it worth converting to fuel injection?

Because a fuel injection system can more precisely control the air to fuel ratio, it results in a more efficient use of fuel, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions. The electronic system can constantly tweak the balance depending on the engine's needs, resulting in less wasted energy and better fuel efficiency.