How much does it cost to fix an air injection system?
Typically, repairing an air injection system costs between about $200 and $1,500, with most jobs falling in the $300–$900 range. The exact price depends on the specific failure, the vehicle make/model, and local labor rates.
What the air injection system does
The secondary air injection (SAI) system helps reduce emissions by injecting fresh air into the exhaust during startup and certain driving conditions, helping the catalytic converter heat up and burn off pollutants more quickly. In most cars it includes an electric air pump, a check valve, a diverter valve or solenoid, associated hoses and clamps, and connections to the exhaust stream. When any part fails, you may see a check engine light and receive emissions-related diagnostic trouble codes.
Cost components and typical prices
Costs come from parts, plus diagnostic labor and time spent identifying the failure. Below are the parts most often involved and their typical price ranges for new components (retail pricing can vary by region and supplier). Note that labor is separate and can significantly affect the total price.
- Electric air pump: $120–$600
- Check valve: $20–$60
- Diverter valve/solenoid: $50–$180
- Hoses and clamps: $15–$80
- Gaskets and fittings: $5–$40
Prices vary widely by vehicle and supplier; labor is additional and can significantly impact the total.
Estimated total costs by repair scenario
These ranges reflect typical total job costs including parts and labor. Labor rates usually run about $75–$150 per hour depending on region, and most repairs take 1–3 hours, with longer times for complex diagnostics or full system replacement.
- Diagnostics only and minor hose leaks: $100–$250
- Air pump replacement (parts and labor): $350–$900
- Valve/check valve/solenoid replacement: $150–$600
- Full air injection system service or replacement (pump, valves, hoses): $600–$1,800
Actual costs depend on your car’s make/model, the availability of parts, and the shop’s labor rates. Always obtain a written estimate before authorizing work.
Factors that influence price
Several factors can push costs higher or lower, including whether the system uses an electric pump or a belt-driven pump, the ease of access to pump and valves, whether exhaust work is required, regional labor rates, and whether OEM (dealer) parts are necessary or if aftermarket equivalents are available.
Do-it-yourself considerations
Replacing an air pump or related components can be technically demanding and may require specialized tools. If you’re not experienced with automotive electrical systems and emissions components, professional installation is usually the safer and more reliable path. A faulty installation can lead to continued emissions problems or damaged components.
Summary
Repair costs for an air injection system vary widely but follow a general pattern: minor fixes such as hose leaks and simple valve repairs are relatively affordable, while replacing the air pump or performing a full system replacement drives up the price. Expect diagnostic fees to add to the bill, and always compare quotes from multiple shops. Understanding which parts need replacement and the expected labor time will help you get an accurate estimate and avoid surprises.
Is a P0491 code expensive to fix?
Repair costs for a P0491 code vary depending on the root cause but typically range from $400-1200 USD (€350-1100 EUR).
How much does it cost to fix an injection system?
The average cost of replacing a fuel injector in the UK is from £120 to £160. The actual cost depends on your car's number of fuel injectors, its type, and your location.
How much does it cost to repair an air intake system?
Air intake repair costs vary widely, from around $30 for a simple hose replacement to over $700 for a complex part like a throttle body, with average costs often ranging from $50 to $500. The final price depends on the specific part that needs replacing, the complexity of the job, and labor rates, which can be $75–$175 per hour or more depending on the shop.
Factors influencing the cost
- Type of repair:
- Hose replacement: A damaged air intake hose is often a low-cost repair, sometimes only around $30 for the part and labor combined.
- Intake manifold gasket: This repair can range from approximately $500 to $670, especially if cleaning is also included.
- Throttle body: Replacing the throttle body can be a more expensive repair, potentially exceeding $700.
- Labor costs:
- Independent shops: Typically charge between $75 and $125 per hour.
- Dealerships: Often have higher labor rates, sometimes from $125 to $175 per hour or more.
- Complexity of the job: Some engine designs make parts like intake manifolds difficult to access, increasing labor time and cost.
- Parts: The cost of the replacement part itself will be a factor, with a simple hose being much cheaper than a more complex sensor or a new intake manifold.
Potential symptoms of air intake problems
- Poor engine performance (e.g., lack of power, rough idling)
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Vehicle stalling or hard starting
- Check engine light is on
- Backfiring
- Hissing noises from the engine
How much does it cost to repair an air injection system?
The average cost for an Air Injection System Control Valve Replacement is between $607 and $752. Labor costs are estimated between $233 and $342 while parts are priced between $374 and $411. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
