Introduction
If your car’s engine is beyond repair, you might be wondering whether it’s worth replacing—and more importantly, how much are new car engines? Whether you’re dealing with a blown engine, severe internal damage, or simply restoring a vehicle, understanding engine replacement costs can help you make a smart financial decision. This guide breaks down the average prices, types of engines available, and what affects overall cost.
Types of Replacement Engines
1. Brand-New (Crate) Engine
- Factory-fresh, unused engine straight from the manufacturer
- Includes long-block or complete engine with some accessories
2. Remanufactured Engine
- Completely disassembled and rebuilt to factory specs with new parts
- Reliable and often backed by a warranty
3. Rebuilt Engine
- Disassembled and reconditioned using some original and some new parts
- Less expensive, but quality can vary
4. Used (Salvage) Engine
- Pulled from a junked vehicle
- Cheapest option, but highest risk
How Much Are New Car Engines?
Price Ranges by Engine Type:
Labor Costs:
- Installation Labor: $1,000 – $3,000
- Total Installed Cost: $2,500 – $10,000+
Cost by Vehicle Type
Factors That Affect Engine Price
1. Engine Size and Complexity
Turbocharged or V8 engines are more expensive than basic 4-cylinder motors.
2. Make and Model
Luxury and European vehicles typically have higher engine costs.
3. Availability
Rare or discontinued engines cost more to source.
4. New vs. Remanufactured
Remanufactured engines are reliable and cheaper than new but come with shorter warranties.
Warranty Considerations
- New engines: Often come with 3-year/100,000-mile warranties
- Remanufactured engines: Usually 1 to 3 years
- Used engines: May come with 30–90 day limited warranty (or none)
Is Replacing an Engine Worth It?
When It Makes Sense:
- The car is in excellent condition otherwise
- It’s a rare, classic, or sentimental vehicle
- A used or reman engine is significantly cheaper than buying a new car
When It Doesn’t:
- The cost of the engine exceeds the vehicle’s value
- The car has other major mechanical issues
Tips for Saving Money
- Compare quotes from multiple mechanics
- Consider a remanufactured engine from a reputable source
- Buy the engine yourself and pay a shop for labor only
- Look for warranty-backed engine packages
FAQs
How long does it take to replace an engine?
Typically 15 to 25 labor hours, or 2 to 5 days depending on shop schedule
Can I install a new engine myself?
Only if you have advanced mechanical skills, tools, and a lift. Not recommended for most DIYers.
Will a new engine increase my car’s value?
It can, especially if the rest of the vehicle is in good shape. But don’t expect full resale value recovery.
Are engine swaps and replacements the same?
No. Swaps may involve fitting a different engine type and require more custom work.
Conclusion
So, how much are new car engines? Depending on the type, you can expect to pay $3,000 to $7,000 for a new engine alone—or $2,500 to $10,000+ with installation. Whether you opt for new, remanufactured, or used, replacing an engine is a big investment that can breathe new life into your vehicle if the numbers make sense. Always weigh the total cost against your vehicle’s value and long-term goals.
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