How much is a new engine?
A brand-new engine for a typical passenger car generally costs about $4,000–$9,000 for the engine itself, with installed totals typically in the $5,000–$12,000 range, depending on model and labor rates.
To understand the price, it’s important to define what “new” means, how engine size and configuration affect cost, and what installation entails. Prices vary widely by vehicle type, source of the engine, and local labor rates.
Understanding the price tag
The price of a new engine is driven by several factors, including the engine’s size and configuration, the source of the engine, and the complexity of the installation. These elements influence both the cost of the unit itself and the labor required to install it.
Engine size and configuration
Smaller four-cylinder engines are typically cheaper to buy and install than larger V6 or V8 configurations. Diesel engines often carry higher costs than gasoline counterparts because of heavier components and longer labor times.
Source of the engine
OEM factory-new engines are the most expensive option. Crate engines from aftermarket suppliers can be substantially cheaper, while remanufactured engines offer another middle ground with varying warranty terms.
Installation complexity
Labor hours depend on the car’s design, engine accessibility, and whether additional work is needed on cooling systems, wiring, exhaust, or sensors. For older or more complex vehicles, installation can be a major portion of the total price.
Installed price ranges by engine type
These figures are rough totals for parts plus labor and exclude tax, disposal fees, and towing. Actual prices will vary by model and shop.
- Small four-cylinder gasoline engines for compact cars: $5,000–$9,000 total installed.
- Midsize engines (V6) and typical turbocharged four-cylinders: $7,000–$12,000 total installed.
- Large V8 engines or high-performance setups: $9,000–$16,000+ total installed.
- Diesel engines: $8,000–$18,000+ total installed.
- Crate/new aftermarket engines (non-OEM): $3,500–$9,000 for the engine itself, plus installation typically $1,000–$4,000.
Prices above reflect common market conditions but can swing with region, dealer/supplier, warranty terms, and the need for ancillary parts or services during installation.
Alternatives to a brand-new engine
If the price of a brand-new engine is beyond reach, several alternatives can reduce upfront costs while restoring vehicle reliability:
- Remanufactured engines: typically 40–60% of the price of a new engine, with varying warranties and reliability profiles.
- Crate engines from aftermarket suppliers: usually cheaper than OEM factory-new, with warranties that vary by vendor.
- Used or low-mileage engines: cheapest option but carries higher risk of hidden wear or unknown history; inspect mileage and service records carefully.
- Partial or long-block replacements: replace the core while reusing some accessories; cost and compatibility considerations apply.
When weighing these options, compare warranties, core charges, and the likelihood of additional future repairs. A cheaper initial price can sometimes lead to higher long-term costs if reliability is compromised.
How to decide what to buy
Use a structured approach to balance budget, vehicle value, and long-term reliability. The steps below help you compare options and avoid surprise costs.
Steps to help you decide which route makes sense for your vehicle and wallet:
- Obtain multiple written quotes from reputable shops, with a clear breakdown of engine price, labor, taxes, and any core charges.
- Ask about warranty terms for both the engine and the installation, including what is covered and for how long.
- Compare OEM factory-new, crate aftermarket, and remanufactured options in terms of reliability, warranty, and total cost of ownership.
- Assess your car’s current value and your long-term plans for the vehicle to determine if repair or replacement is more economical.
- Factor in financing, potential towing, and future maintenance needs to decide whether to proceed now or consider alternatives.
Making an informed choice can help you avoid sticker shock and align the decision with your vehicle’s value and your budget.
Summary
Engine replacement costs vary widely based on engine size, type, source, and labor. For a typical four-cylinder passenger car, plan on roughly $5,000–$12,000 installed, with higher figures for larger engines, diesel, or luxury models. If cost is a concern, remanufactured or crate options can reduce upfront expenses, but compare warranties and compatibility carefully. Always obtain multiple quotes, understand what is included, and consider your vehicle’s value and your long-term plans before proceeding.
Is it worth fixing a car with a blown engine?
Yes--sometimes fixing a car with a blown engine is worth it, but the decision depends on objective financials, emotional value, repair risks, and alternative options. Below is a practical framework and typical scenarios to decide.
Does a new engine mean 0 miles?
No, a new engine does not mean 0 miles because the odometer is tied to the vehicle, not the engine. Replacing the engine does not reset the odometer, which continues to show the total mileage the car has traveled. For a new engine, the mileage of the old one should be documented for resale and maintenance records, and the new engine itself can be considered to have 0 miles only in the sense that the new part has not been used, but this does not affect the car's odometer reading.
- The odometer measures the entire vehicle's mileage: It tracks the distance the chassis and all other components have traveled, not just the engine.
- Replacing the engine doesn't reset the odometer: The odometer is a separate device that is not connected to the engine itself.
- Keep records: It is recommended to record the mileage at the time the new engine is installed to help with maintenance and for future resale of the vehicle.
- Resetting an odometer is illegal: It is against the law to tamper with the odometer to change the mileage reading.
Is it worth replacing a car's engine?
Is engine replacement worth it on older cars? Depends on your car's value and overall condition. If engine repair costs more than your car is worth, investing in a different vehicle might be smarter. But if everything else works well, a new engine can give your car several more years of reliable service.
How much is a normal car engine?
Car engines can cost anywhere from $2,000 to over $15,000, with the price depending heavily on the type of engine (new, remanufactured, or used), the specific make and model of the vehicle, and labor costs. Used engines are the most affordable option, ranging from around $600 to $6,000 for the part alone, while brand new engines are the most expensive, often costing $4,000 to $10,000+ for the part itself. The total cost with labor for a new engine replacement typically falls between $6,000 and $15,000.
Engine cost breakdown
- Used Engine: $600 – $6,000+ for the part, with total cost including labor ranging from approximately $1,800 to $6,000.
- Rebuilt/Remanufactured Engine: $1,500 – $6,000+ for the part, with total cost including labor ranging from roughly $3,500 to $8,500.
- New Engine: $4,000 – $15,000+ for the part, with total cost including labor ranging from about $6,000 to $15,000 or more.
Factors that influence cost
- Vehicle type: The make, model, and engine complexity all impact price. High-performance or luxury vehicles with specialized engines are significantly more expensive to replace.
- Labor: Labor is a major component of the total cost. An engine replacement can take anywhere from 10 to 25 hours, with rates typically ranging from $70 to $100 per hour, depending on the shop.
- Parts and fluids: Additional costs for related parts like belts, hoses, gaskets, and fluids are necessary for installation.
