The intake manifold directs the fuel and air mixture to appropriate cylinders for combustion, powering the engine. That’s why a damaged intake manifold can seriously impact your vehicle’s performance.
If the engine runs too hot or you hear unusual noises, visit an expert mechanic right away.
Wondering how much will intake manifold replacement cost?
We’ll break down the expenses and key warning signs that signal it’s time for a repair. Plus, we’ll dive into whether a DIY fix is possible and how long intake manifolds typically last.
Let’s begin!
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an Intake Manifold Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the Damaged Intake Manifold?
- 7 Signs You Need an Intake Manifold Replacement
- How Long Does an Intake Manifold Last?
- Can You Replace the Intake Manifold Yourself?
- Can You Drive Your Car with a Bad Intake Manifold?
How Much Does an Intake Manifold Replacement Cost?
Here’s what you may have to pay for replacing a faulty intake manifold:
A. Range
The average cost of intake manifold replacement falls between $260 to $1,800.
This includes:
- Cost of parts: $110 to $1,250
- Labor costs: $150 to $550 (The replacement process typically takes 3-5 hours)
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Labor charges and your car’s make and model significantly impact replacement estimates.
Besides that, here are other factors that decide your final bill at the auto repair shop:
- Material of intake manifolds: Common materials for intake manifolds include aluminum, cast iron, or plastic. Aluminum and cast iron manifolds are more durable and, therefore, more expensive than plastic ones.
- OEM vs. aftermarket parts: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) intake manifolds usually cost more than the aftermarket ones. That’s because OEM parts are designed to meet the original part’s exact specifications and quality standards.
- Warranty: If your car is under a powertrain warranty, it’ll cover the cost of parts and labor for an intake manifold replacement. If not, you’ll need to pay for the replacement out of pocket.
- Related repairs: Damage to engine components, such as the intake manifold gasket, exhaust manifold, or fuel injector, will increase your repair cost. For example, a new fuel injector can add another $335 to $1600 to your total bill.
Is It Worth Replacing the Damaged Intake Manifold?
Short answer – yes.
A damaged intake manifold can cause vacuum leaks, letting extra air into the engine and disrupting the precise air-fuel mixture needed for efficient combustion. This can spell trouble for your engine’s performance.
Further, carbon deposits can accumulate inside the intake manifold. This buildup leads to incomplete combustion, slowing acceleration, and further diminishing performance.
7 Signs You Need an Intake Manifold Replacement
Have a car repair expert check your intake manifold if you notice these symptoms:
- Check engine light illuminates: When there’s a leak or malfunction in the intake manifold, the engine’s computer detects unusual manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor readings. This can cause the check engine light to appear on your vehicle’s dashboard.
- Coolant leak: A cracked or faulty intake manifold gasket can lead to a coolant leak. If the coolant level is low, refill it and monitor it closely.
- Engine idles roughly or stalls: A damaged intake manifold can let too much air into the engine, causing erratic idling and stalling at lower speeds.
- Poor engine performance: Issues with the intake manifold can disrupt your engine’s air-fuel mixture, leading to performance issues like reduced power, rough acceleration, misfiring, and backfiring.
- Unusual noises: You may have a bad intake manifold if your engine makes whistling, sucking, gulping, or hissing noises.
- Engine runs hot: If a damaged intake manifold causes a coolant leak, it can lead to engine overheating. This can also damage other parts, such as the cylinder head and engine block.
- Decreased fuel efficiency: Leaks in the intake manifold can force the engine’s computer to inject more fuel than usual, reducing fuel efficiency.
How Long Does an Intake Manifold Last?
An intake manifold should last a vehicle’s lifetime, usually around 100,000 to 200,000 miles.
However, its lifespan can vary based on factors like engine maintenance, driving conditions, and part quality. For example, plastic intake manifolds are more susceptible to cracking or damage over time than those made from iron or aluminum.
Can You Replace the Intake Manifold Yourself?
Since an intake manifold replacement involves removing multiple engine components, it’s best to leave the job to a trained auto repair professional.
Here’s how your mechanic will go about it:
- Disconnect the battery to prevent electrical issues.
- Drain the coolant to a level below the manifold’s passages by opening the radiator drain plug.
- Remove the engine cover, fuel lines, wiring connectors, vacuum lines, throttle cable, air intake, and EGR tubes.
- Detach the fuel rail and injectors from the intake manifold.
- Inspect the manifold, removing any remaining hoses or tubes.
- Remove the intake manifold mounting bolts. Before lifting, they’ll use compressed air to clear dirt from the area.
- Next, use a screwdriver or pry bar to gently break the intake manifold’s seal.
- Carefully lift the damaged intake manifold.
- Prepare the new manifold by checking for a leaking gasket. If needed, replace a faulty intake manifold gasket and apply gasket sealant.
- Place the new manifold and secure it tightly with bolts.
- Reassemble all engine components and refill the coolant.
- Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and check for unusual noises or leaks.
- Finally, if the check engine light was on previously, clear any error codes using an OBD-II scanner.
Can You Drive Your Car with a Bad Intake Manifold?
It’s not a good idea to drive when your engine’s intake manifold is damaged.
The intake manifold ensures proper fuel and air flow into the engine cylinders for combustion. If it’s worn or leaking, it can lead to engine misfires and potential engine damage.
So, it’s best to address the issue ASAP by getting it to a car repair shop.
Fix Your Faulty Intake Manifold with AutoNation Mobile Service
The intake manifold plays a critical role in your engine’s combustion process, directly impacting overall performance and efficiency. Subjected to constant heat and pressure, this essential component can develop cracks or other issues over time. When it happens, it’s best not to wait.
Why not let the experts come to you?
With AutoNation Mobile Service, you can have mobile mechanics ready to fix issues like a damaged intake manifold — all without stepping foot in a shop.
With easy online booking, schedule an appointment, and we’ll handle the rest.
From intake manifold replacements and oil change service to other related repairs, we’re available seven days a week to keep you safe on the road!