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Camshaft Replacement Cost (+Is it an Urgent Repair?)

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Like most car parts, the camshaft can wear out over time.
And any damage to the camshaft demands prompt replacement.

Why?
It plays a crucial role in engine function, controlling the flow of air and fuel into and out of the combustion chambers. 

Wondering what a camshaft replacement costs?

We’ll give you the lowdown on the expenses and some signs that indicate it’s time for a trip to the car repair shop. Plus, we’ll reveal if you can DIY the replacement and what causes the camshaft to wear out sooner.

This Article Contains:

How Much Does a Camshaft Replacement Cost?

Here’s what you may have to pay for a new camshaft:

A. Range

The price of camshaft replacement ranges between $1,500 to $1,800.

This includes:

B. Factors Affecting Total Cost

Labor charges, along with your car’s make and model, can significantly impact replacement costs.

But that’s not all.
Additional factors that may affect your total bill include:

Can a Camshaft Be Repaired?

Yes, in some cases, camshaft damage can be repaired. 

Gradual flattening or rounding of camshaft lobes can be fixed through re-grinding or reshaping, while welding can fix mildly damaged areas. However, if there’s severe camshaft damage, such as breakage or warping, replacement is your only option.

Is It Worth Replacing the Camshaft?

Yes, absolutely! 

Delaying camshaft replacement can spell trouble for your car’s engine. For instance, a failing camshaft can throw off engine timing, causing exhaust valves and pistons to collide (particularly in interference engines). This misalignment can bend or break both the valves and pistons, leading to costly repairs.

7 Common Signs You Need a Camshaft Replacement

Take your vehicle to a mechanic when:

  1. The check engine light illuminates because the camshaft position sensor detects irregularities in the camshaft’s timing. 
  1. The car fails to start due to insufficient air and fuel in the cylinders.
  1. You hear loud knocking or ticking sounds from the engine, similar to metal striking metal. 
  1. The engine performance declines, with sluggish acceleration and poor idling.
  1. The engine misfires, causing noticeable shaking.
  1. Tiny metal particles appear in the engine oil, potentially damaging cylinder walls, camshaft bearings, and crankshaft.
  1. The fuel efficiency drops noticeably.

How Long Does a Camshaft Last?

Ideally, camshafts should last the engine’s lifespan, around 180,000 and 250,000 miles

However, they can wear out sooner due to the following factors: 

How to Replace a Bad Camshaft

Replacing a camshaft requires a deep understanding of every engine component and its functionality. Hence, it’s wise to leave this complex job to a trained professional.

Here’s how an auto mechanic will go about it:

  1. Refer to your vehicle’s manual, as the camshaft location can vary based on specific car make and model. In some cases, they may need to remove the entire engine.
  1. Access the camshaft by removing the timing cover and disconnecting each component, including the battery, radiator, and intake manifold.
  1. Remove the valve covers to access rockers, pushrods, and lifters. 
  1. Rotate the camshaft to mark the Top Dead Center (TDC) — a V-shaped timing mark at the top, for accurate reassembly.
  1. Carefully remove the old camshaft.
  1. Wash the new camshaft in solvent and wait for it to dry before installation.
  1. Lubricate the camshaft bearings and lobes with some oil or conditioner.
  1. Set the timing chain with timing marks at the Top Dead Center (TDC).
  1. Put the lower portion of the timing cover over the oil pan, applying silicone as needed.
  1. Lubricate and install new lifters, ensuring each lifter moves freely. 
  1. Reassemble the remaining components, including the battery, radiator, and intake manifold, and reconnect the wiring.
  1. Test the timing of the camshaft and adjust if needed with a timing gun.
  1. Recalibrate the camshaft position sensor to ensure it accurately detects the camshaft’s position with the new or adjusted camshaft.
  1. Start the car to check for proper engine function.

Camshaft Replacement Made Easy with AutoNation Mobile Service

A failing camshaft can lead to poor engine performance, frequent stalling, or complete breakdowns. When the engine isn’t running right, your day can quickly go off-track, making it difficult to get where you need to go.

Sounds bad, right?
If you notice your engine acting up, call AutoNation Mobile Service

We’re a mobile auto repair and maintenance solution available seven days a week. Our expert mechanics can diagnose and fix faulty car parts right from your driveway.  

Simply make an appointment online for camshaft replacement or other auto repair services.