Engine Replacement Cost
Replace a failed or severely worn engine with a used, remanufactured, or new long block. Often the tipping-point decision: fix the car or sell it for scrap.
What this repair is
The engine is the heart of the vehicle. When it suffers catastrophic failure — thrown rod, blown head gasket, seized bearings, or cracked block — replacement is often more economical than a full rebuild. Options include a low-mileage used engine from a salvage yard, a factory remanufactured long block, or a brand-new crate engine.
Signs you need this repair
- Loud knocking or tapping from the engine (rod knock)
- Engine seized — won’t crank or turn over
- Massive coolant loss with no visible external leak
- Oil mixed with coolant (milky substance on dipstick)
- Check engine light flashing with misfire codes
- Metal shavings in the oil or filter
What's included in the cost
DIY — what you pay for
- Used engine (salvage yard, low-mileage)$2300
- Oil, coolant, filters, gaskets$190
- Motor mounts (replace while engine is out)$100
- Belt, hoses, thermostat (refresh while accessible)$90
Shop — what they charge for
- Remanufactured long block$3800
- Labor (8–12 hrs)$1300
- Fluids, gaskets, belts, hoses$250
- Shop markup & diagnostics$380
DIY difficulty & what you need
Tools & parts
Tap any item to search for it on Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate, QuackAuto earns from qualifying purchases.
When to call a shop instead
Engine replacement requires a hoist, significant mechanical knowledge, and often a second person. Beyond the physical challenge, you must transfer all accessories, sensors, and wiring harnesses and align everything correctly. A misaligned timing component or a forgotten sensor can destroy the new engine. Unless you have experience and equipment, this is a shop job.
Is your quote fair?
If a shop quotes above $8,200 for a reman engine on a mainstream sedan, ask why — a dealer OEM unit or a luxury vehicle can cost more, but a standard reman above that is high. Always get a second quote.
How to budget for this
Set aside $50–$100/month as a sinking fund — an engine replacement runs about $3,200 DIY or $5,700 at a shop.
Engine Replacement FAQ
Used vs remanufactured engine — which should I choose?
A used engine ($1,900–$3,800) is the cheapest but carries unknown wear and no warranty. A remanufactured long block ($3,200–$5,700) is rebuilt to factory tolerances with new bearings, seals, and pistons, and typically includes a 1–3 year warranty. For most drivers, a reman engine is the safer investment — the small premium over a used unit buys significant peace of mind.
Is it cheaper to rebuild an engine instead of replacing it?
A rebuild can cost $1,900–$3,800 in parts and machine work, but only if the block, crank, and cylinder head are reusable. If the block is cracked or the crank is scored, a rebuild becomes impractical and a replacement long block is cheaper. A mechanic can inspect the internals during teardown and tell you which path makes sense.
When is an engine replacement not worth it?
If the car’s market value is less than the replacement cost, you’re better off selling the car as-is or for parts. A $5,700 engine replacement in a car worth $3,800 doesn’t make financial sense unless the vehicle has sentimental value or you plan to keep it for many years. Get the car’s fair market value first, then compare.
Sources
Cost estimates and maintenance intervals on this page are compiled from the following publicly available sources. Click through to verify or explore further.
Related repairs
The figures on this page are AI-generated national-average sample estimates. Actual costs vary by vehicle, location, and parts quality. For exact estimates tailored to your car, subscribe to QuackAuto.