How much does it cost to replace cylinder head?

The typical total cost in the United States ranges from about $1,500 to $4,000, depending on engine type, labor rates, and whether the head itself is replaced or just the gasket and related components. For luxury, diesel, or highly complex engines, costs can be higher, sometimes reaching $6,000 or more.

Replacing a cylinder head is a major repair that hinges on several variables. The head may need replacement, resurfacing, or a full valve job, and ancillary parts such as gaskets, timing components, water pump, and oil changes factor into the price. The following sections break down what drives price and what you can expect in different scenarios.

What triggers a cylinder head replacement?

Cylinder head work is often prompted by failures that cannot be remedied by simpler gasket repairs. Common triggers include head gasket failure, overheating that warps the head, cracks in the cylinder head, valve-seat or valve-stem damage, and coolant/oil mixing caused by a damaged sealing surface.

Head gasket failure

A blown head gasket can allow coolant and oil to mix or pressure loss in the cooling system, which may necessitate replacing the head or resurfacing it along with the gasket set.

Overheating and warp/cracks

Severe or repeated overheating can warp or crack the head, making a simple gasket replacement insufficient and requiring head replacement or machining.

Valve and timing issues

Damage to valves, valve seats, or timing components can accompany a head issue, increasing the complexity and cost of the repair.

Cost ranges for cylinder head replacement

Costs can vary widely by engine design, vehicle age, and region. The ranges below reflect typical U.S. prices for 2024–2025 and cover parts, machining, and labor. They assume a standard gasoline engine in a mid-market car.

1. Low-end replacement for common passenger-car engines: about $1,500 to $2,500 total. This includes a rebuilt or aftermarket cylinder head, head gasket kit, water pump, timing components, basic machining if needed, and labor (roughly 6–12 hours at $80–$120/hour).


2. Mid-range replacement for more complex engines (V6/V8, SUVs or newer designs): about $2,500 to $4,000 total. Extra machining, premium parts, and longer labor time (10–16 hours) push the price higher.


3. High-end replacement for luxury, diesel, turbocharged, or high-performance engines: about $4,000 to $8,000 or more. This tier often involves premium parts, extensive machining or valve work, and additional component replacements.

Prices can vary based on location, shop labor rates, and whether the head needs resurfacing or a full valve job. If only the gasket and seals are leaking, a gasket-only repair or a head resurfacing with gasket replacement can be substantially cheaper than a full head replacement.

What affects the cost?

Several factors influence the final bill for cylinder head work. Understanding these can help you estimate cost and shop around for the best value.

• Engine type and design (inline-4, V6, V8, turbocharged, diesel, etc.).


• Head condition (needs resurfacing, valve job, or replacement due to warping or cracks).


• Parts quality and source (OEM, aftermarket, or remanufactured head; gasket sets; timing components).


• Machining required (resurfacing, valve seating, pressure testing).


• Labor rates and shop location (urban vs rural, dealer vs independent shop).


• Additional components replaced during the job (water pump, thermostat, oil pump, serpentine belt, etc.).


• Access and complexity (engine layout, space constraints, and whether timing belts/chains must be removed).

In practice, a more complex engine or a damaged head can significantly raise both parts and labor costs, while a straightforward gasket replacement on a simpler engine may stay on the lower end of the spectrum.

Ways to save on cylinder head replacement

Consider these strategies to reduce the overall cost without compromising safety or reliability.

• Get multiple quotes from reputable shops to compare labor rates and estimated hours.


• Ask for a detailed written estimate that itemizes parts, machining, and labor before authorizing work.


• Check if a rebuilt or remanufactured head is a viable option for your engine, which can be cheaper than a brand-new OEM head.


• Request price quotes that include a warranty on parts and labor.


• In some cases, you may salvage parts from a used or salvaged head, but ensure compatibility and reliability with your engine model.


• Consider timing the repair with other maintenance (water pump, thermostat, coolant) to optimize labor efficiency and avoid duplicative service trips.

Planning ahead and shopping around are key to balancing cost with long-term engine reliability.

Summary

Replacing a cylinder head is a major repair whose price depends on engine type, head condition, machining needs, and regional labor rates. Typical total costs range from $1,500 to $4,000 for many cars, with higher figures for luxury, diesel, or highly complex engines. Understanding the factors that drive price, exploring different repair options (head replacement vs gasket-only repair), and obtaining multiple quotes can help you manage the cost while preserving engine longevity.

Is replacing a cylinder head worth it?

Replacing a cylinder head is worth it if the vehicle is in good overall condition and the repair cost doesn't exceed the car's value, as it can prevent further engine damage and extend the engine's life. However, it is not worth it if the engine has other major damage, or if the repair cost is disproportionately high compared to the car's worth. It is essential to get a professional opinion to assess the overall condition of the engine before making a decision.
 
This video explains when you should consider replacing your car's cylinder head: 59sRiggs GarageYouTube · Oct 2, 2020
When it is worth it

• Vehicle condition: If the vehicle is otherwise in good shape and the repair cost is less than double its value, it's often a good investment. 
• Preventing future damage: A new cylinder head can prevent more significant and expensive engine problems down the line. 
• Extending vehicle life: Investing in a cylinder head replacement can extend the overall life of your vehicle, preventing constant breakdowns and repairs. 
• Classic cars: For classic or collectible cars, a well-executed engine restoration can increase the vehicle's value. 

When it is not worth it

• Major underlying issues: If there are other major defects in the engine, such as significant cracks or worn-out bearings, a cylinder head replacement is likely not the best option and a full engine replacement may be necessary. 
• Disproportionate cost: If the cost of the repair is more than the vehicle is worth, it is often more practical to find a new-to-you car instead. 

What to do

• Get an expert opinion: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle to provide a realistic cost estimate and assess the overall condition of the engine. 
• Consider resurfacing: Often, replacing a head gasket requires a head and block resurfacing to ensure a proper seal, especially if the engine has been overheated. 
• Evaluate the whole picture: Think about the vehicle's overall condition, maintenance history, and potential for future issues. A professional assessment will help you make an informed decision. 

How much does a cylinder head job cost?

The cost for cylinder head repair can vary widely, with repairing a cylinder head costing anywhere from around $100 to several hundred dollars for resurfacing and valve work, while replacement costs range from $750 to over $4,000, depending on the vehicle. The final price depends on the specific repairs needed, labor costs, the type of vehicle, and whether you opt for a repair or a full replacement. 
Factors influencing the cost

• Repair vs. Replacement: For many modern aluminum heads, replacement is often more cost-effective than a complex repair. For older, heavier iron heads, repair can sometimes be a viable option. 
• Specific Repairs: Costs increase based on the work required. Basic tasks like resurfacing a flat surface are cheaper than replacing valves, seals, and springs, or grinding the ports. 
• Labor: Labor is a significant factor, with rates typically between $80 and $150 per hour and jobs often taking 8 to 15 hours or more, depending on engine complexity. 
• Vehicle Type:
  • Economy cars: May cost $800 to $1,500. 
  • Mid-range vehicles: May cost $1,200 to $2,500. 
  • Luxury vehicles/complex engines: Can cost $2,000 to $4,000 or more due to higher parts prices and more complex labor. 
• Parts: The cost of replacement parts like the head, gasket, bolts, and valves can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. 

Getting an accurate quote

• Get an inspection: Have the cylinder head professionally inspected to identify all the necessary repairs, such as checking for warping and inspecting the valves. 
• Compare quotes: Call several different mechanics and explain the work needed to compare pricing for both labor and parts. 
• Check for related damage: The repair cost can increase significantly if there is related damage, such as to valves, seals, or if coolant and oil have mixed and the related systems need to be flushed and refilled. 

Can you drive with a damaged cylinder head?

No, you cannot safely drive with a bad cylinder head; it risks causing severe and costly engine damage. Driving with a failing head gasket or a cracked head can lead to overheating, loss of compression, and contamination of your engine oil with coolant, which drastically reduces lubrication and can lead to catastrophic engine failure. At the first sign of trouble, you should stop driving immediately and seek professional repair.
 
This video explains the dangers of driving with a blown head gasket: 58sMercie J Auto Care, llcYouTube · Jun 7, 2021
Risks of driving with a bad cylinder head

• Overheating: A bad head gasket or crack allows combustion gases to leak into the cooling system, leading to overheating and potentially warping the cylinder head. 
• Oil and coolant contamination: Coolant can mix with engine oil, which weakens the oil's ability to lubricate moving parts, leading to premature wear and failure of components like bearings. 
• Loss of compression: This results in poor engine performance and can cause further stress on other engine components. 
• Catastrophic engine failure: What starts as a minor problem can quickly escalate into a total engine failure if you continue to drive. 

You can watch this video to learn how to diagnose a bad head gasket: 1mRepair GeekYouTube · Mar 30, 2023
What to do if you suspect a bad cylinder head

• Pull over immediately: If you notice any symptoms like severe overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, or milky oil, pull over as soon as it is safe and turn off the engine. 
• Do not continue driving: Avoid driving the vehicle. Even short trips can cause irreversible damage and make the repair more expensive. 
• Seek professional diagnosis: Have a qualified mechanic inspect the vehicle to determine the extent of the damage. They will be able to perform diagnostic tests to confirm the issue and recommend the necessary repairs. 

How many hours does it take to replace a cylinder head?

10 to 15 hours
There's no rushing through the precise work of removing intake and exhaust manifolds, spark plugs, timing belts, and countless other components. On average, professionals might need 10 to 15 hours to complete the job, whereas a first-timer could take significantly longer.