Crankshaft Replacement Cost UK 2025
Crankshaft Replacement Cost UK 2025
Replacing a crankshaft in the UK can vary significantly based on the type of vehicle, location, and the choice between OEM and aftermarket parts. For 2025, you can expect to pay between £500 to £2500. The cost is influenced by the engine size, the accessibility of the crankshaft, and the type of service provider. Additional factors include the need for special tools, the complexity of the engine layout, and whether the crankshaft is being replaced as part of a larger engine rebuild.
Average Costs by Vehicle Type
| Vehicle Type | Example Model | Common Work | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Car | Ford Fiesta | Crankshaft replacement | £500 – £900 |
| Midsize Sedan | Volkswagen Passat | Crankshaft replacement | £700 – £1200 |
| SUV | Land Rover Discovery | Crankshaft replacement | £1000 – £1800 |
| Luxury Car | Mercedes-Benz S-Class | Crankshaft replacement | £1500 – £2500 |
| Light Commercial | Ford Transit | Crankshaft replacement | £800 – £1600 |
| Sports Car | Porsche 911 | Crankshaft replacement | £1200 – £2400 |
Realistic Regional Prices
| Region | Average Cost (£) |
|---|---|
| Northern England | £700 – £1500 |
| Southern England | £800 – £1600 |
| London | £1000 – £2000 |
| Scotland | £750 – £1450 |
| Wales | £650 – £1300 |
| Northern Ireland | £700 – £1500 |
Costs tend to be higher in London due to higher labour rates and the general cost of doing business. In contrast, Northern Ireland and Wales benefit from slightly lower costs due to lower overheads for garages. Northern England and Scotland see costs influenced by the availability of specialist services and transportation costs for parts.
Correct as of November 2025.
What’s Included
When replacing a crankshaft, the service typically involves the following steps and components:
- Inspection/diagnostics: Technicians perform a detailed inspection to diagnose issues with the crankshaft, including checking for cracks, wear, and misalignment.
- Parts list: Key components typically replaced include the crankshaft itself, bearings, seals, and sometimes the oil pump and timing components.
- Labour scope: The replacement can take anywhere from 8 to 12 hours depending on the vehicle model, involving the removal of the engine block and disassembly of the engine.
- Fluids/seals/consumables: Replacement includes new engine oil, coolant, and various seals and gaskets to ensure airtight and fluid-tight reassembly.
- Testing & quality checks: Post-installation, the engine is tested under various conditions to ensure functional integrity and correct installation.
- Warranty paperwork: Most services include a warranty on parts and labour, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months.
Symptoms & When to Book
Recognizing the need for a crankshaft replacement can save significant costs and prevent further engine damage. Key symptoms include:
- Vibrations from the engine bay: Indicates imbalance or damage in the crankshaft.
- Unusual noises: Knocking sounds can suggest worn bearings connected to the crankshaft.
- Oil leaks: Damaged seals around the crankshaft may lead to significant oil leaks.
- Engine misfires: A misaligned or damaged crankshaft can disrupt engine timing and cause misfires.
- Reduced engine performance: A failing crankshaft affects the engine’s ability to turn efficiently, reducing power and performance.
- Engine won’t start: In severe cases, a completely broken crankshaft will prevent the engine from starting.
Delaying crankshaft replacement can lead to catastrophic engine failure, significantly increasing the cost of repairs.
Intervals & Preventative Tips
Crankshaft replacement is not regularly scheduled maintenance, but it’s crucial to heed the warning signs. Factors influencing intervals include:
- High-performance or heavily loaded engines may require more frequent inspections.
- Driving conditions: Harsh driving conditions or frequent short trips can accelerate wear.
- Regular oil changes and using the correct oil type can significantly extend the life of the crankshaft and associated bearings.
Factors That Influence Price
Several factors affect the cost of crankshaft replacement:
- Vehicle make and model: High-performance or luxury vehicles typically cost more due to the complexity and cost of the parts.
- Age and mileage: Older or high-mileage vehicles may require additional repairs during crankshaft replacement.
- Part quality: OEM parts are more expensive than aftermarket solutions but offer better assurance of quality.
- Location: Urban garages often charge more than rural ones due to higher operating costs.
- Garage type: Main dealers are generally more expensive than independent garages.
- Additional repairs: Often, other components such as the timing chain or bearings also need replacement, increasing costs.
- Seasonal factors: During quieter periods, some garages may offer discounts.
DIY vs Professional
While some maintenance tasks can be DIY, crankshaft replacement generally requires professional attention:
- DIY-friendly tasks include regular oil changes and external inspections for leaks or wear.
- Professional-only: Removing an engine and replacing a crankshaft requires specialized tools and knowledge.
- Safety: Incorrect installation can lead to serious engine damage or vehicle malfunction.
- Cost-benefit: Considering the complexity and tools required, professional installation is generally more cost-effective unless you have specific mechanical training.
How to Save Money
Effective strategies to reduce the cost of crankshaft replacement include:
- Getting multiple quotes to ensure competitive pricing.
- Understanding the split between parts and labour can help negotiate better rates.
- Choosing independent specialists who often have lower rates than main dealers.
- Bundling services such as timing belt replacement can reduce overall costs.
- Timing your service during off-peak seasons can leverage lower rates.
- Opting for aftermarket parts where appropriate can save costs without compromising quality.
- Exploring warranties and loyalty programs can offer discounts and reassurances.
FAQs
- How much does a crankshaft replacement cost? Typically, costs range from £500 to £2500 depending on vehicle type and service location.
- How urgent is crankshaft replacement? It’s highly urgent as delaying can lead to complete engine failure.
- What is covered under warranty? Most warranties cover the crankshaft and labour, usually for 12 to 24 months.
- How long does the service take? It generally takes 8 to 12 hours, depending on the complexity of the vehicle.
- What happens if you delay the service? Delaying can cause increased damage, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.
- How to choose the right garage? Look for certified technicians, good reviews, and transparency in pricing.