Key Takeaways
- Used junkyard engine swap: $1,500-$4,000 total (cheapest option)
- Remanufactured engine: $4,000-$7,000 total
- New OEM from dealership: $6,000-$12,000+ total
- Labor for engine swap: $800-$2,000 at an independent shop
Engine Replacement Cost by Vehicle
| Vehicle | Used Engine + Labor | Reman + Labor | New OEM + Labor (Dealer) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda Civic (4-cyl) | $1,200-$2,200 | $3,500-$5,000 | $5,500-$8,000 |
| Toyota Camry (4-cyl) | $1,300-$2,400 | $3,500-$5,500 | $5,500-$8,500 |
| Ford F-150 (5.0L V8) | $2,000-$3,500 | $4,500-$7,000 | $7,000-$11,000 |
| Chevy Silverado (5.3L V8) | $1,800-$3,200 | $4,000-$6,500 | $6,500-$10,000 |
| BMW 3 Series (I6/I4 turbo) | $2,500-$4,500 | $5,000-$8,000 | $8,000-$14,000 |
| Nissan Altima (4-cyl) | $1,200-$2,000 | $3,000-$4,500 | $5,000-$7,500 |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee (V6) | $1,800-$3,000 | $4,000-$6,000 | $6,000-$9,000 |
| Ford F-250 (6.7L Powerstroke) | $4,000-$7,000 | $8,000-$12,000 | $12,000-$20,000 |
Cost Breakdown: Where the Money Goes
| Component | Indie Shop | Dealership |
|---|---|---|
| Engine removal | $400-$800 | $600-$1,200 |
| Engine installation | $400-$800 | $600-$1,200 |
| Fluids, gaskets, seals | $100-$300 | $200-$500 |
| New belts, hoses, thermostat | $100-$250 | $200-$500 |
| Diagnostic and startup | $100-$200 | $150-$300 |
Most shops recommend replacing the timing belt/chain, water pump, thermostat, and all accessory belts while the engine is out. The parts only cost $100-$300 extra, and accessing them with the engine installed would cost $500-$1,000 in labor later.
Rebuild vs. Replace: Which Makes Sense?
| Factor | Used Engine Swap | Engine Rebuild |
|---|---|---|
| Total cost | $1,500-$4,000 | $2,500-$5,000 |
| Time in shop | 1-3 days | 2-4 weeks |
| Result | Different engine, unknown history | Same engine, known rebuild quality |
| Best for | Common vehicles, budget repairs | Rare engines, classic cars, trucks you'll keep 10+ years |
For most daily drivers, the used engine swap wins on cost and speed. Rebuilds make sense when you can't easily find a replacement (rare import engines, older diesels) or when you plan to keep the vehicle long-term and want maximum reliability.
Search our inventory to find matching engines at salvage yards near you. For the full used engine buying process, read our Used Engines & Transmissions Buyer's Guide.