Key Takeaways
- Diesel engine replacement: $8,000-$25,000+ at dealer / $4,000-$9,000 with salvage yard engine
- Cummins 6.7L used: $3,000-$5,000 / Powerstroke 6.7L used: $3,500-$6,000 / Duramax 6.6L used: $3,000-$5,000
- Diesel engines routinely last 300,000-500,000+ miles — used with 150K is mid-life
- Diesel trucks hold value so well that engine replacement almost always makes financial sense
Diesel Engine Replacement Cost by Engine
| Engine | Found In | New/Reman (Dealer) | Used (Salvage) | Install Labor | Total (Salvage Route) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cummins 6.7L ISB | Ram 2500/3500 (2007+) | $12,000-$18,000 | $3,000-$5,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | $5,500-$9,000 |
| Cummins 5.9L ISB | Ram 2500/3500 (1998-2007) | $8,000-$12,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | $2,000-$3,500 | $4,500-$7,500 |
| Powerstroke 6.7L | Ford F-250/350 (2011+) | $14,000-$20,000 | $3,500-$6,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | $6,000-$10,000 |
| Powerstroke 6.0L | Ford F-250/350 (2003-2007) | $6,000-$10,000 | $1,500-$3,000 | $2,000-$3,500 | $3,500-$6,500 |
| Duramax 6.6L LML/L5P | Silverado/Sierra 2500/3500 | $12,000-$18,000 | $3,000-$5,000 | $2,500-$4,000 | $5,500-$9,000 |
| Duramax 6.6L LBZ/LMM | Silverado/Sierra (2006-2010) | $8,000-$14,000 | $2,500-$4,500 | $2,000-$3,500 | $4,500-$8,000 |
Why Salvage Diesel Engines Are Smart Buys
Diesel engines are over-engineered for longevity. A Cummins 5.9L with 200,000 miles isn't worn out — it's barely broken in. These engines are designed for commercial use where 500,000+ miles is expected. Buying a used diesel engine from a salvage yard with 100,000-150,000 miles means you're getting an engine with 200,000+ miles of service life remaining.
Interchange Notes
| Engine | Direct Swap Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cummins 6.7L | 2007-2018 (pre-2019 emissions update) | 2019+ has updated emissions. Match ECM generation |
| Cummins 5.9L | 1998-2002 (24v) / 2003-2007 (CR) | 24-valve and common rail are different engines |
| Powerstroke 6.7L | 2011-2016 / 2017-2019 / 2020+ | Three generations. Match emissions system year |
| Duramax 6.6L | By RPO code (LBZ, LMM, LML, L5P) | Each code is a different generation. Must match |
For gasoline engine pricing, read our engine replacement cost guide. Search for diesel engines at salvage yards with our inventory search.