How much does it cost to replace the exhaust manifold on a Toyota Corolla?
The typical all-in cost for replacing an exhaust manifold on a Toyota Corolla is about $500 to $1,500, depending on engine type, whether a catalytic converter is included in the manifold assembly, and local labor rates.
Replacing an exhaust manifold is a fairly common repair, but prices vary widely by year, engine design, and market. Toyota Corollas use a variety of 1.8-liter four-cylinder engines across generations, and some variants route exhaust through a pre-catalytic converter housed in the manifold. When the catalytic converter is integrated or adjacent to the manifold, parts and labor costs can rise. Regional labor rates and shop policies further influence the final bill. This article outlines typical price ranges, what drives them, and how to secure an accurate quote as of 2024–2025.
What drives the cost
Below are the main cost components you should expect, with typical ranges for common scenarios.
- Exhaust manifold (non-cat) – parts: $150–$600; labor: $150–$500; total: $300–$1,100
- Exhaust manifold with upstream catalytic converter (pre-cat) – parts: $500–$1,000; labor: $200–$700; total: $700–$1,700
- Exhaust manifold with catalytic-converter–integrated unit (rare) – parts: $700–$1,500; labor: $300–$900; total: $1,000–$2,400
Preliminarily, identify whether your Corolla uses a standard exhaust-manifold (non-cat) or a manifold that includes an upstream catalytic converter (pre-cat). The presence of a cat inside or attached to the manifold affects both parts and labor.
Prices vary by region, the chosen parts (OEM vs aftermarket), and whether additional components such as gaskets, sensors, or heat shields are included in the quote. The following paragraph explains how these scenarios translate to typical bills across the country.
Labor costs and time
Labor time and rate largely determine the final price. A typical replacement takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on access, rust, and whether bolts or studs break during removal. In the United States, shop rates commonly run from about $75 to $150 per hour, with higher rates in urban or high-cost areas. Based on those figures, total labor often ranges from roughly $150 to $600, though it can exceed that in markets with steeper rates or complex repairs.
Be prepared for extra charges if bolts are seized, the exhaust is heavily corroded, or the job requires additional work such as replacing oxygen sensors, heat shields, or repairing damaged threads on the cylinder head.
Other factors that affect price
Several additional conditions can push the price up or down. Consider these when evaluating a quote.
- Engine variant and whether the manifold includes a pre-cat or cat-integrated design
- Extent of rust and accessibility of mounting bolts
- Whether OEM or aftermarket parts are used
- Need for gasket sets, oxygen sensors, studs or bolts, and heat shields
- Warranty coverage on parts and labor
In areas with strong labor unions or high costs of living, prices tend to run higher. Conversely, independent shops in lower-cost regions may offer more aggressive pricing, especially for non-cat manifolds or aftermarket parts.
Getting an accurate quote
To receive a precise estimate tailored to your car, follow these steps when talking to shops.
- Provide exact year, trim level, and engine type of your Corolla; confirm whether your model uses a pre-cat or a standard manifold.
- Ask for an itemized, written quote that separates parts, labor, and any shop fees, and whether it includes gaskets, sensors, and mounting hardware.
- Check if the quote accounts for potential additional work if bolts are seized or if inspection reveals other issues.
- Request warranty details on both parts and labor (common terms are 12 months/12,000 miles or similar).
Obtaining multiple, itemized quotes helps you compare apples to apples and protects against surprise charges once work begins.
DIY vs professional replacement
Replacing an exhaust manifold is technically feasible for an experienced DIY mechanic, but it can be tricky. The job requires the right tools, patience with stubborn bolts, and proper safety practices to avoid damaging the head or causing leaks. For most drivers, a professional installation offers better reliability and includes a warranty on parts and labor. If you are cost-conscious, consider obtaining a professional quote first and weigh it against the cost of parts and time if you choose to do it yourself.
Summary
For a Toyota Corolla, the all-in price to replace an exhaust manifold generally sits in the $500 to $1,500 range, rising toward $2,000 or more in some cases (particularly with pre-cat configurations or higher regional labor rates). The exact total depends on engine configuration, whether a catalytic converter is included or integrated, parts choice (OEM vs aftermarket), and the local labor market. To lock in the best price, collect multiple itemized quotes, confirm what’s included, and ensure warranty terms cover both parts and labor. As of 2024–2025, this framework remains the best way to get an accurate, up-to-date estimate for your specific Corolla.
