How much to replace a Ford E350 engine?
Typically, replacing an E-350 engine costs roughly $4,000 to $12,000 in total, depending on engine type and labor.
The Ford E-350 offers several powertrains across model years, including gasoline options (such as the 5.4L V8 and the 6.8L V10) and diesel (notably the 6.0L Power Stroke in some configurations). Costs vary based on whether you source a used, remanufactured, or new crate engine, as well as local labor rates and any ancillary work required. The sections below outline common engine options and the typical price ranges you may encounter when planning a replacement.
Engine options for the Ford E-350
Below is a quick reference to the main engine options you’re likely to encounter, with caveats about year and trim compatibility.
- Gasoline 5.4L V8
- Gasoline 6.8L V10
- Diesel 6.0L Power Stroke
Note: Availability of these engines depends on the van’s model year and configuration. Always verify with your VIN to confirm exact compatibility and mounting requirements.
What drives the price
Prices vary widely based on the source of the engine, the labor market, and any required supporting work.
- Engine source: used, remanufactured, or new crate
- Labor: shop hourly rates and estimated time to complete the swap
- Additional parts and work: cooling system components, timing, wiring, mounting brackets, exhaust, and transmission compatibility
- Regional factors: availability and travel time for parts can affect cost
These factors account for most of the variation you’ll see across different quotes.
Typical cost ranges by replacement option
Cost estimates reflect installed prices as of 2024–2025 and assume typical labor rates in many markets. Actual quotes will vary by shop and region.
- Used or rebuilt gasoline engine swap: roughly $3,000–$7,000 total
- Remanufactured gasoline engine (with warranty): roughly $4,500–$9,000 total
- New crate gasoline engine: roughly $5,000–$10,000 total
- Diesel engine replacement (6.0L Power Stroke): roughly $7,000–$12,000 total
Costs can climb higher if your van requires extra components (radiator, water pump, hoses, belts, sensors) or if labor rates are higher in your area.
How to minimize costs and evaluate options
To make a well-informed decision, consider factors beyond the sticker price, such as warranty coverage, reliability history of the engine option, and the age of related systems (cooling, transmission, fuel system). Get multiple written estimates, ask about labor breakdowns, and verify what is included (timing components, gaskets, seals, and any required accessories).
Also consider long-term needs, such as expected mileage, availability of affordable used parts, and potential resale value after a replacement. A transparent shop should walk you through each scenario and help you weigh the trade-offs between cost, reliability, and future maintenance.
Summary
Replacing an E-350 engine spans a broad price range—roughly $4,000 to $12,000 or more—driven by engine type (gas vs diesel), source (used, remanufactured, or new crate), labor rates, and any additional component work. Gasoline engines (5.4L V8 or 6.8L V10) are common, while the 6.0L Power Stroke diesel can push costs higher. Obtain multiple quotes, confirm exact engine compatibility, and consider warranty and future maintenance when choosing an option. With careful planning, you can balance upfront costs with long-term reliability for your Ford E-350.
How many miles will a Ford E350 last?
How Long Do Ford E-Series Last? E-series vans typically reach up to 300,000 miles before reaching points of critical breakdown–they are tanks! My van came with 170,000 miles on it and I'm now at 186,000 miles–still haven't run into any issues. The E-series includes the E150, E250, and E350.
Is it cheaper to buy a new engine or rebuild it?
It is usually cheaper to rebuild an engine than to buy a completely new one, as a rebuild uses the existing engine block and only replaces or repairs damaged parts. However, a new or remanufactured engine may be the better option if the existing engine is severely damaged or if the cost of the rebuild, including labor and potential parts, approaches the price of a replacement. The final decision depends on the extent of the engine's damage and the cost comparison for your specific vehicle.
Rebuilding the engine
- Pros:
- Can be significantly cheaper than buying a brand new engine because it uses many of your existing parts.
- Keeps the original engine in your vehicle, which can be beneficial for vehicles that are rare, unique, or have sentimental value.
- Can potentially restore better performance and fuel economy than the worn-out engine had before.
- Cons:
- The cost can escalate if there is extensive damage to critical components like the block or cylinder heads.
- May require additional time for the rebuild, which adds costs for a rental car.
- Can be a complex process with a risk of mistakes that could cause further damage.
Buying a new or remanufactured engine
- Pros:
- Often comes with a warranty, providing more peace of mind.
- A remanufactured engine is a reliable option that is often cheaper than a brand-new engine.
- Less downtime compared to a full rebuild process.
- Cons:
- New engines are typically the most expensive option.
- A used engine can be a cheaper option, but there is a significant risk because you don't know its history.
How to decide
- Get a professional diagnosis: Have a mechanic assess the extent of the damage to your engine to determine what needs to be replaced.
- Compare quotes: Get quotes for both a rebuild and a replacement (either remanufactured or used) to see which is more cost-effective.
- Consider the vehicle's value: If the vehicle is old or has high mileage, the cost of a rebuild might not be worth it, especially if other major components are nearing the end of their life.
How much does it cost to replace a Ford engine?
A Ford engine replacement can cost anywhere from $4,000 to over $15,000 or more, depending on the engine type, the vehicle, and the parts used. A basic replacement with a rebuilt or used engine and standard labor might be on the lower end, while a brand new crate engine, high-performance engine, or a comprehensive "service engine assembly" will be at the higher end.
Factors influencing the cost
- Engine type: Replacing a smaller, 4-cylinder engine will cost less than a larger V8 or a diesel engine.
- Engine source:
- New (crate or OEM): The most expensive option, ranging from $3,000 to over $14,000.
- Used or rebuilt: A more budget-friendly alternative, often costing between $600 and $6,000.
- Labor: The cost of labor can range from $1,200 to $2,200 or more, depending on the complexity of the job and the shop's hourly rate.
- Additional parts: Many jobs require more than just the engine, such as new belts, water pumps, and other components, which will add to the total cost.
- Vehicle model: High-performance engines or models with more complex systems will be more expensive to replace.
- Labor rates: Hourly labor rates vary by location. Some sources show labor costs for a full engine replacement ranging from around $3,500 to over $5,000, notes Airtasker.
Cost examples
- A 2013 Ford F-150 remanufactured engine can cost around $5,679.93.
- The 2018 Ford EcoSport with a 1.0L engine requires about 12.5 hours of labor, plus the cost of the engine itself, which is around $1,944 at retail.
- A full service engine assembly, which includes the fuel system and turbocharger, can cost around $20,000.
Is it cheaper to rebuild or replace a 350?
Bottom Line on Engine Replacement
Replacing a car engine can be costly, but choosing a rebuilt or remanufactured engine is often more affordable than buying a new vehicle. Rebuilt engines are cheaper ($3,500-$6,000) and involve replacing only worn parts, but may have shorter lifespans.
