Jeep Wrangler Engine Replacement Cost

Jeep Wrangler is one of the coolest daily drives and off-roading vehicles and Americans simply love it. Like all other automotive parts, the Jeep Wrangler engine has a specific service life. Once its service life is over, you face serious engine issues and the best way to get out of these issues is the engine replacement. However, jeep wrangler engine replacement is a serious matter and you must draw a plan and cost estimate before going into the market.

The cost of the engine replacement depends upon various factors and an automotive mechanic can help you make the most accurate estimate for the engine replacement cost. The overall cost of engine replacement is the sum of the cost of materials and services involved in the process. If you wonder how much it costs to replace a jeep engine, this post is going to be really helpful for you. In this post, I’ve discussed everything that you need to know about jeep wrangler engine replacement costs.

How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Jeep Wrangler Engine

The cost of the jeep wrangler replacement varies between $1000 to $10,000. However, most of the time jeep engine replacement cost falls somewhere between $3500-$7500. The price varies over this wide range since there are many factors that have a significant impact on the overall cost of the process. Knowing all the factors will help you make a wise decision. A well-planned process will help you save money without sacrificing the quality of the material and services.

Types Of Engines You Can Install In Jeep Wrangler

The major part of the overall cost is the price of the engine that you install in your jeep. You can buy both new and used engines to replace the engine of your jeep. Various types of engines are available offering compatibility with different Jeep Wrangler models. This information about the different types of engines will help you figure out the engine that is exactly in line with your needs and budget.

4.0L 6 Cylinder

4.06 stands among the best jeep wrangler engines for its impressive price-performance ratio. This engine is available somewhere between $1900 to $2400. This engine offers above-average performance for the daily driving experience and offers a longer life span. This engine with a power of 6 cylinders lasts longer than your expectation giving you the best value for money. If you’re re looking for a better deal for this engine, it is advised to buy from a physical hardware store instead of an online retailer. Also, check out the difference between jeep wrangler 4 cylinder vs 6 cylinders.

5.6 Hemi

If you’re looking for a solid engine replacement for your off-roading and challenging adventures, consider Hemi engines. Hemi engines offer the class-leading torque and horsepower rating giving you remarkable power to explore the toughest terrains and tarsals. 5.6 Hemi engines cost you somewhere between $5000 to $8000.

Hemi 5.6 is a wild machine with a torque of 410 lb-ft and horsepower of 60.9 hp. The replacement cost will be around $10,000 after adding the labor and services cost. So Hemi 5.6 is one of the most expensive engine replacements for the jeep wrangler but it is remarkable on all fronts.

6.2 Hellcat

6.2 Hellcat features advanced compatibility with Jeep Wrangler and delivers an impressive power boost. This is a powerful machine that is a great choice for anyone who is not concerned about the budget. The engine costs you somewhere between $19000-$20,000. Of course, it is not a good idea to replace an old broken down engine of an outdated SUV with this powerful machine. However, if you are looking for additional power and strength for your Jeep for power taxing applications like racing and off-roading, Hellcat 6.2 is the best choice.

3.5L Pentastar

The 3.5 L Pentastar is another reliable option you can find on the market. This is not the most powerful option but is a fine choice if you want to replace your old broken engine without breaking the bank. This engine is the perfect option for occasional off-roading and driving experience. The engine costs vary between $2600 to $3600. With additional labor and services cost you can manage the whole replacement process for under $5000 which is totally a fair deal.

LS Engine

LS engine swapping is trending these days as they simply multiply the power, speed, and strength of your jeep. LS engines are the luxury Sport engine used in the Luxury Sports Vehicle. These engines don’t offer a drop-in fit for non-luxury cars and SUVs. To make them a fit for your Jeep wrangler you need to do a lot of modifications especially if you own an older model.

The best part of LS engines is that they’re available over a wide price range. The average cost of replacing your older engine with a reliable and relatively newest engine model is somewhere between $5000-$10,000. The best part is that you can find exciting deals for LS engines on the market.

Factors Affecting Price of Replacing a Jeep Wrangler Engine

Knowing all the factors that affect the engine replacement cost will help you set up your priorities. It makes it easier for you to figure out the cost of services and material choices to keep the replacement cost within a limit. Here is a brief explanation of all the factors that affect the jeep wrangler engine replacement cost.

Engine

A big part of the total price is the engine. I hope that the above discussion on the different types of engines and engine rebuild costs will help you make a rough estimate of the engine cost. The choice of engine boils down to your driving needs and personal preference. If you are not an off-roader you can manage an engine upgrade for under $3000.

Labor

Labor cost has another big share in the overall replacement cost of the engine. Engine replacement is a tough job. Even if an engine of a drop-in fit it will take multiple days for installation. The jeep is disassembled and an engine is installed. Then it is reassembled and this process takes a lot of time and energy. The typical labor cost for engine replacement varies between $1000-$2000. The per-hour labor cost of the low-end workshops is around $100 per hour and if you go for premium-grade services the cost will increase accordingly.

Manufacturing And Parts

The overall cost of the engine replacements depends upon the manufacturing quality of the accessories. If you go for all OEM parts and accessories, you will have to pay higher as the manufacturing cost of the OEM part is always higher. If you are on a budget, you can find aftermarket engine parts for various brands. The manufacturing costs of the off-brand aftermarket parts are not as high as OEM parts.

Retailer

If you buy engines and accessories from an online retailer, the overall costs will be higher. In the physical market, you will find a variety of products with very good deals. To buy used and off-brand accessories, one should be well informed about how things work in the engine replacement. It is highly recommended to seek professional help for safe investments.

Time

Time is another factor that will add to the overall cost of the replacement process. If the engine needs a lot of modification it will take more time and extra labor costs will be added. Also if some parts or accessories you need are not available in the market, you may have to wait for them to arrive. Therefore it is advised to go with a pre-planned action.

Is it worth replacing a Jeep Wrangler engine or getting it repaired?

It is quite hard to say “Yes” or “No” since it depends on a large variety of factors. If your engine is completely broken and the chances to get it repaired or rebuilt are zero, an engine replacement is definitely worth it. However, you need to consider the condition of your jeep also.

The cost of repairing or rebuilding an engine also depends upon various factors. The major contributing factor to the engine repairing cost is time. The rebuilt engine is not solid as a single unit. In this process, you need to buy different parts from different retailers. This is a time-consuming process.

Also, you may not find all the OEM parts for your outdated engine. Off-brand parts need modification that will add more to the overall cost. In general, the cost of repairing an engine is always less than replacing an engine. If you have the skill to rebuild your engine on your own, you can rebuild your engine within a limited budget. If you are going to repair or rebuild your engine, keep these things in mind.

Skill Level

Only a skilled professional can perform the job of engine rebuilding with maximum accuracy. Engine reconstruction involves a lot of modification and complex assembly processes. If you have confidence in your mechanic, go for an engine reconstruction instead of a replacement.

Time

Engine replacement is quicker than repairing or building the engine. While repairing an engine, fit you need to figure out the issues with the existing engine. If all the issues are not figured out properly, you will never be out of problems. Then finding all the parts and making modifications will take a lot of time.

Cost

As I have already discussed, engine rebuilding is a budget-friendly process. If you want to repair a completely worn-out car, of course, the cost will be higher. But if you want a boost in horsepower or want to upgrade your engine for enhanced strength, it is highly recommended to reconstruct your engine. According to a rough estimate, the 3.6 Pentastar engine rebuild cost is around $2000 to $2500. However, if you go for replacement it will cost you at least $3000.

How Do You Know It’s Time To Replace The Engine?

Noise

Noise from the engine is pretty normal, but when you notice constant banging noise from the engine it means something is wrong with its parts. The odd noises are usually produced due to outworn bearings. The noise can also be produced due to the oil and grime in the engine if it is not properly maintained. It is crucial to identify the issues that are causing the noise.

Too Much Smoke

Too much smoke out of the exhaust showcases the bad health of the engine. The color of smoke is also different from the normal smoke exhaust. The smoke issues are also related to excessive fuel burning and it is advised to go for an engine repair or replacements. Also, check out some great exhaust systems for jeep wrangler.

Metal Shreds In The Oil

This is a serious issue that signifies the engine life is almost over. If you discover metallic shreds in the oil during an oil change, it’s time to get a new engine for your car.

Power Issues

The power of the jeep is significantly reduced when engines go through some major issues. If the jeep doesn’t accelerate as a normal vehicle it means the engine is going through major problems. Go to the workshop to see if it needs a repair or replacement. Driving with a broken or low-power engine can be risky as it can lead to irreparable damage to the motor. Here are the common problems of the jeep 3.8 engine.

FAQs

How Long Do Jeep Wrangler Engines Last?

The service life of the engine depends upon its reliability rating and how well it is maintained. A well-maintained engine offers a mileage of around 200,000 miles if it is properly maintained over time.

How Much Does A Total Engine Replacement Cost?

The engine replacement cost for SUVs like jeep wrangler is between $3000 to $10,000. A normal 4-cylinder engine costs you around $4000-$5000. For daily driving application engines, the average engine replacement cost of the jeep wrangler is $3500.

How Much Does A 2007 Jeep Wrangler Engine Cost?

There are different types of engines available for the Jeep Wrangler 2007 model. If you go for a 3.6 L engine it is one of the best options for impressive reliability rating and decent off-roading performance. The typical cost of a 3.6L engine for a 2007 Jeep Wrangler is between $3000 to $4000.

Is The 3.8 L Jeep Engine Good?

The 3.7 L engine is a reliable and cost-effective engine for everyday driving needs. This engine has best in class reliability rating and offers a mileage of around $200,000. However, its automatic power transmission limits its application in heavier SUVs like Jeep Wrangler JKU.

Is It Cheaper To Rebuild Or Replace An Engine?

Rebuilding or repairing an engine is much cheaper than engine replacement. If your engine is in good condition you can rebuild it for a performance boost under a very limited budget. However, if the engine’s service life is over it is recommended to go for an engine replacement.

Wrapping Up

I’m hopeful that the information will help you estimate the jeep wrangler engine replacement cost. We can safely conclude the engine replacement cost largely depends upon the type of engine you buy for your jeep. If you want a simple power boost LS engines are highly recommended. You can find exciting deals for LS engines in the market. The modification cost is a little higher but they simply multiply the strength and power of the jeep.