A V6 engine is a popular option for many midsize and full-size sedans, SUVs, minivans, and trucks. With its smooth power delivery, good fuel economy, and relative affordability compared to larger V8 engines, the V6 provides an appealing combination of performance and value. But how much does a brand new V6 engine cost? The prices can vary quite a bit depending on the specific engine model, vehicle make and model, whether the engine is purchased new or remanufactured, and from which supplier it is purchased. Generally speaking, a new V6 engine can range in cost from about $3,000 on the very low end, up to $15,000 or more for some high-performance variants.
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Base Cost of a New V6 Engine
The base prices for most common mass-produced V6 engines from major manufacturers like GM, Ford, and Chrysler tend to fall somewhere between $3,000 to $6,000 when purchased new from an automotive supplier. This usually includes just the long block or “dressed” long block, meaning the engine block, cylinder heads, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, and other internal lubricated parts of the engine. Additional components like the intake manifold, exhaust manifolds, fuel system, ignition system, sensors, and alternator are often sold separately. So the total cost to piece together a complete running V6 engine is typically a few thousand dollars higher than just the long block cost alone.
Some examples of typical base costs for popular domestic V6 applications include:
- GM 3.6L V6 (LFX) – $3,100 to $3,700
- Ford 3.7L V6 (Cyclone) – $3,200 to $4,000
- Chrysler 3.6L V6 (Pentastar) – $3,500 to $4,500
These mass-produced V6 models are very common in American and Canadian-built cars and trucks, powering everything from midsize sedans to full-size pickup trucks and SUVs. The engines range from around 3.5 to 4.0 liters in displacement and offer a good balance of power, torque, efficiency, and affordability.
High Performance and Specialty V6 Pricing
Moving up to more powerful, high output V6 engines, costs tend to increase substantially. Performance-oriented V6 engines with increased horsepower, torque, and displacement can often run from $6,000 to $15,000 when purchased new. This includes premium engines like:
- Ford 3.5L EcoBoost V6 – $6,000 to $8,500
- BMW 3.0L TwinPower Turbo V6 – $9,000 to $12,000
- Nissan 3.5L Twin Turbo V6 – $8,000 to $10,000
- Audi/VW 3.0L Supercharged V6 – $9,000 to $13,000
These engines feature technologies like turbocharging, supercharging, and direct injection to increase horsepower well over 300HP, some achieving over 400HP in upper trim levels. This added performance comes at an added cost. Low-volume specialty engines also command higher prices, like exotic Italian V6 models from Ferrari, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 each.
Remanufactured V6 Engines
For buyers looking for more budget-friendly options, remanufactured V6 engines offer similar components to new models, but cost significantly less. Remanufactured motors use a combination of reused original components and new replacement parts to rebuild an engine to like-new condition. Typical reman V6 engines can run anywhere from $1,800 on the very low end, up to around $4,500 for most applications. This represents a savings of several thousand dollars compared to new V6 engine costs. However, buyers trade off getting brand new components for the savings.
Complete Crate V6 Engines
Another option is to purchase a complete V6 crate engine, also sometimes called a turnkey engine. Here, the supplier includes all the necessary components like the engine block, cylinder heads, oil pan, valve covers, fuel system, ignition system, alternator, and front-end accessories to create a ready-to-install powerplant. Complete V6 crate engines typically range from around $4,000 on the low end up to $12,000 or more for high-performance editions. The convenience of a fully dressed engine helps offset somewhat higher costs compared to buying an engine à la carte.
V6 Engine Cost by Vehicle Application
Since V6 engines are used across a wide range of domestic and import car lines, pricing also varies depending on the specific vehicle the engine is intended for. Here are some typical new V6 engine price ranges for popular models:
| Vehicle Make/Model | Engine Options | New V6 Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Ford F-150 | 3.3L V6, 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | $3,500 – $8,000 |
| Chevy Silverado 1500 | 4.3L V6, 5.3L V8 | $3,200 – $5,000 |
| Toyota Camry | 3.5L V6 | $5,000 – $6,500 |
| Honda Accord | 3.5L V6 | $4,500 – $6,000 |
| Dodge Charger | 3.6L V6, 5.7L V8 | $4,000 – $10,000 |
| Nissan Maxima | 3.5L V6 | $5,500 – $7,000 |
This comparison shows how V6 pricing follows similar patterns across vehicle segments, with large trucks on the lower end, family sedans in the middle, and sports models topping out near $10,000 for the engine alone.
Added Cost Factors
There are also some additional components, fees, and services that can add to the total invoice for a new V6 engine:
- Shipping fees – $200 to $600
- Core charge/deposit for old engine – $500 to $1,500 (refunded when old engine is returned)
- Programming for engine management computer – $80 to $150/hour
- Sales taxes
- Professional installation labor – $500 to $1,500
So it’s important to factor in these extra costs above the base engine price when budgeting for a new V6. Removing the old engine and swapping in the new one properly can take 10-20 hours for shops charging $80 to $120 per hour.
Used V6 Engines
For the most cost-conscious buyers, used V6 engines offer the least expensive route. Junkyards and salvage yards sell older used V6s removed from damaged vehicles for anywhere from $700 for high mileage units, up to around $2,500 for lower mileage examples. The main benefits are very low initial purchase prices, often with limited 90 day warranties. The clear trade-offs are unknown maintenance history, higher mileage, and the risk of undetected problems. For those willing to accept these risks however, a used V6 can provide substantial cost savings.
Conclusion
New V6 engine prices span a wide gamut, ranging from entry-level models starting around $3,000, up to specialty high-performance engines costing $15,000 or more. The average driver looking for an affordable and durable V6 has many options in the $3,500 to $6,000 range from reputable suppliers, providing a good balance of value and performance. By carefully considering factors like intended vehicle fitment, remanufactured options, crate engines, and added costs beyond the engine alone, buyers can zero in on an optimal V6 choice without blowing their budget. With some smart research and realistic expectations, finding a quality V6 powerplant that fits both performance needs and budget limits is very achievable.