How much does it cost to replace a manifold on a F150?
Typical total costs range from about $400 to $2,000, with exhaust-manifold jobs usually on the lower end and intake-manifold jobs on the higher end, though extreme corrosion or special parts can push it higher.
Understanding the two main manifold replacements
On a Ford F-150, you can be replacing either an exhaust manifold or an intake manifold. Each type has different parts, labor requirements, and price drivers. The exact figure depends on your engine (for example, 2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, or 5.0 V8), the shop’s hourly rate, and whether you use OEM or aftermarket components. Below are typical ranges to give you a baseline for planning.
Before looking at specific cost ranges, note that the price can be higher if the bolts are seized, the engine is heavily rusted, or additional work is needed (such as replacing sensors, catalytic converters, or downpipes).
- Exhaust manifold replacement: typical total cost ranges from about $400 to $1,500. Parts (manifold and gaskets) can be a few hundred dollars, and labor hours commonly fall between 2 and 6, depending on access and engine layout.
- Intake manifold replacement: typical total cost ranges from about $800 to $2,000. This job is more labor-intensive on most F-150 engines, especially newer EcoBoost models, due to space constraints and the number of components involved.
Prices can vary by region, shop, and the specific engine in your F-150. If the manifold failure triggers downstream issues (e.g., sensors, hoses, or the catalytic converter), costs can climb further.
What factors influence the price
Several variables determine the final bill beyond the basic distinction between exhaust and intake manifolds. Understanding these can help you compare quotes and avoid surprises.
- Engine model and year: Different engines (2.7L EcoBoost, 3.5L EcoBoost, 5.0 V8) have different access, bolt patterns, and required parts, affecting both parts cost and labor.
- Labor rates by location: Shop hourly rates vary widely between urban centers and rural areas, and between independent shops and dealers.
- Parts choice: OEM vs aftermarket manifolds and gaskets, along with any required sensors, bolts, and clamps, can significantly shift price.
- Condition of hardware: Seized or corroded bolts and dowel pins increase labor time and risk of additional repairs.
- Diagnostic and ancillary work: A diagnostic fee or the need to replace accompanying components (oxygen sensors, DPFE/DPF-related parts, or hoses) adds to the total.
- Extent of work needed: If the manifold has multiple cracks or if ancillary components must be replaced, the job becomes more complex and costly.
For most owners, obtaining written estimates from a few local shops and asking for a detailed breakdown (parts, labor hours, and any additional parts) helps ensure you’re comparing like-for-like and budgeting accurately.
Common F-150 engines and how they influence labor and parts
The F-150 has varied powertrains across model years. The 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines may require different intake manifold configurations and turbo-related considerations, while the 5.0 V8 typically presents different access challenges for exhaust manifolds. These differences shift both the labor time and the parts cost you’ll see on a quote.
Estimated cost ranges by manifold type (typical figures)
The figures below summarize ballpark totals you can expect when addressing the two main manifold replacements on an F-150. These ranges assume standard shop rates and typical parts choices.
- Exhaust manifold replacement: Total cost generally between $400 and $1,500, depending on engine and labor complexity.
- Intake manifold replacement: Total cost generally between $800 and $2,000, depending on engine and labor complexity.
These ranges are broad guidelines. In markets with high labor costs or if the job requires specialized tools, the price can be higher. Conversely, parts discounts from aftermarket suppliers or a straightforward replacement can push costs toward the lower end.
Common questions and practical tips
To help you plan, here are practical considerations often raised by F-150 owners facing manifold work:
- Can I save money by doing it myself? If you have automotive experience and the right tools, you may reduce labor costs, but exhaust manifolds, especially on newer models, can be challenging and may require special tools and torque specs.
- Should I replace related parts at the same time? It’s common to replace gaskets, studs/bolts, and possibly sensors if they’re old or near failure to prevent future leaks or sensor errors.
- Is it worth upgrading to aftermarket parts? Aftermarket exhaust or intake manifolds can be cheaper and may offer similar performance, but ensure compatibility with your model year and emissions requirements.
Summary
Replacing a manifold on an F-150 is a mechanical job with costs that vary widely by engine type, manifold (exhaust vs intake), labor rates, and the condition of surrounding bolts and components. Expect roughly $400-$1,500 for exhaust-manifold work and $800-$2,000 for intake-manifold work, with higher totals possible in areas with steep labor rates or complicated access. Always obtain multiple written estimates and confirm which parts are included in the quote to avoid surprises later.
