How Much Is a 5.7 Hemi Engine?
The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine is one of the most iconic modern American powertrains, powering millions of Ram 1500 pickups, Dodge Chargers, Challengers, and Jeep Grand Cherokees. Purchasing a replacement 5.7 HEMI engine typically costs between $1,200 and $7,500, depending on whether you purchase a used junkyard pull, a remanufactured long block, or a brand-new Mopar factory crate engine. When factoring in professional mechanic installation labor, total replacement invoices generally range from $5,500 to $9,500.
Used vs Remanufactured vs Brand-New Crate Engines
The condition tier of the replacement engine drives the baseline purchase cost. Used 5.7 HEMI engines pulled from auto recyclers or salvage yards sell for $1,200 to $2,800. While budget-friendly, used engines carry unknown mechanical histories, potential lifter tick wear, and limited 30 to 90-day warranties, making them risky for daily drivers.
Remanufactured long blocks represent the most practical balance of reliability and cost, pricing between $3,200 and $4,800 from reputable builders like Jasper, Powertrain Products, or ATK. These engines undergo complete disassembly, cylinder overboring, new hypereutectic pistons, updated multi-displacement system (MDS) lifters, and upgraded camshafts, backed by three-year nationwide unlimited-mileage warranties. Genuine brand-new Mopar factory crate engines cost $6,200 to $8,500.
Compare average price ranges, warranties, and inclusions across 5.7 HEMI engine replacement options:
| Engine Condition Category | Parts Purchase Price | Typical Warranty Coverage | Installed Total Range | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Used Salvage Yard Pull | $1,200 to $2,800 | 30 to 90 Days Parts-Only | $3,200 to $5,200 | Older trucks, budget DIY repairs |
| Remanufactured Long Block | $3,200 to $4,800 | 3 to 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | $5,500 to $7,800 | Daily driven Ram 1500s & Chargers |
| Performance Reman (Cam/Lifters) | $4,200 to $5,800 | 3 Years Unlimited Mileage | $6,500 to $8,800 | Enthusiasts eliminating MDS failure |
| New Mopar OEM Crate Engine | $6,200 to $8,500 | 2 to 3 Years Factory Warranty | $8,500 to $11,500 | Restorations & strict factory fidelity |
| Short Block (Block + Rotating Assembly) | $2,200 to $3,400 | 1 to 2 Years Limited | $5,000 to $7,200 | Reusing existing cylinder heads & intake |
The Infamous Hemi Tick, MDS Lifters, and Camshaft Wear
A primary reason owners must replace their 5.7 HEMI is the notorious 'HEMI lifter tick.' The Multi-Displacement System (MDS) deactivates four cylinders during highway cruising to improve fuel economy. However, low engine idle oil pressure combined with restricted needle-bearing lubrication frequently causes the roller lifters to seize. Once seized, the lifter roller grinds directly against the camshaft lobe, sending metallic debris throughout the oil gallies.
When lifter failure occurs, replacing only the camshaft and lifters costs $2,500 to $4,000. However, if metallic shavings have circulated into the rod bearings and cylinder walls, a complete long-block replacement is required. Quality remanufacturers install upgraded high-volume oil pumps and revised lifter assemblies with enhanced needle-bearing alloys to permanently resolve this factory vulnerability.
Review detailed labor and parts breakdown for a complete 5.7 HEMI engine swap:
| Replacement Expense Line Item | Average Cost Range | Labor Hours / Details | Service Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5.7 HEMI Long Block Engine | $3,200 to $4,800 | Delivered on shipping crate | Core long block assembly |
| Professional Mechanic Labor | $1,800 to $3,200 | 15 to 22 Labor Hours ($120-$160/hr) | Pulling front clip, engine swap, coding |
| New Water Pump & Thermostat | $150 to $300 | Included during swap labor | Preventive replacement during open bay |
| OEM Exhaust Manifold Kit | $250 to $500 | Replaces warped cast manifolds | Fixes broken exhaust manifold bolts |
| Fluids, Synthetic Oil & Coolant | $150 to $250 | Full synthetic 5W-20 + HOAT coolant | Proper break-in fluids and filters |
| Engine Core Return Deposit | $500 to $1,000 | Refundable upon core return | Credited once old core is received |
Vehicle Applications, Power Ratings, and Labor Hours
The 5.7 HEMI outputs between 360 and 395 horsepower and 390 to 410 lb-ft of torque depending on the vehicle chassis. Ram 1500 trucks utilize active runner intake manifolds generating 395 horsepower, while Dodge Chargers and Challengers tune the engine for rapid throttle response. Pre-2009 versions featured non-Eagle cylinder heads, while 2009-and-newer models feature high-flowing 'Eagle' heads with variable valve timing (VVT).
Labor hours for an engine swap vary by vehicle drivetrain. Replacing a 5.7 HEMI in a two-wheel-drive Ram 1500 requires roughly 14 to 17 book hours ($1,800 to $2,500 in labor). Four-wheel-drive trucks and tightly packaged Dodge Durango or Jeep Grand Cherokee engine bays demand 18 to 24 labor hours ($2,400 to $3,600), requiring removal of front differentials, transfer cases, and steering racks.
How to Order and Replace a 5.7 Hemi Engine in 5 Steps
Follow these five steps to verify VIN codes, choose a remanufacturer, order replacement parts, and complete break-in.
Verify Exact VIN Eighth-Digit Engine Code
Locate your vehicle 17-digit VIN; the eighth character (typically 'T' or '2') identifies exact VVT, non-VVT, and MDS engine configurations.
Order a Quality Remanufactured Long Block
Select an accredited engine remanufacturer offering a 3-year nationwide warranty and revised MDS lifters.
Inspect and Replace Wear Items During Swap
Install a new water pump, spark plugs, engine mounts, and new exhaust manifold bolts while the engine bay is empty.
Flash PCM and Calibrate Crankshaft Sensor
Have the technician perform a crankshaft position variation relearn using a professional bi-directional OBD2 diagnostic scanner.
Execute Strict 500-Mile Engine Break-in
Drive under varying engine speeds for the first 500 miles, then perform an immediate oil and filter change to flush break-in metal particles.
Frequently Asked Questions (8 Questions Answered)
Q1: How much horsepower does a 5.7 HEMI produce?
The 5.7 HEMI produces 360 to 395 horsepower and 390 to 410 lb-ft of torque depending on intake manifold design and vehicle application.
Q2: What causes the 5.7 HEMI lifter tick?
Low engine oil idle pressure and long oil change intervals starve the roller lifter needle bearings, causing lifters to seize and grind down camshaft lobes.
Q3: Can you delete MDS on a 5.7 HEMI engine?
Yes, an MDS-delete kit installs non-MDS lifters and a custom camshaft, accompanied by PCM software tuning to eliminate lifter failure permanently.
Q4: How many miles do 5.7 HEMI engines last?
With regular synthetic oil changes every 5,000 miles, a 5.7 HEMI easily lasts 200,000 to 250,000 miles before requiring major overhaul.
Q5: What is the core charge on a 5.7 HEMI engine?
Remanufacturers charge a refundable core deposit of $500 to $1,000, refunded when your old rebuildable engine block is shipped back.
Q6: Can a 5.7 HEMI run on regular 87 octane fuel?
Ram 1500 5.7 HEMI engines run safely on 87 octane, but the manufacturer recommends 89 mid-grade octane for optimum power and fuel economy.
Q7: How much does a mechanic charge to swap a 5.7 HEMI?
Labor for a 5.7 HEMI engine swap averages $1,800 to $3,200 based on 15 to 22 labor hours at $120 to $160 per shop hour.
Q8: What is an Eagle 5.7 HEMI engine?
Eagle refers to the revised 2009-and-newer 5.7 HEMI featuring high-flow cylinder heads, variable valve timing (VVT), and higher compression.
Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In conclusion, understanding how much is a 5.7 hemi engine? provides essential clarity, practical strategies, and actionable advice. By incorporating these foundational insights, adhering to verified safety guidelines, and following structured best practices, you ensure reliable, long-term outcomes while preventing common mistakes. Stay informed, consult certified professionals when needed, and maintain consistent quality care.