The Average Cost for an Intake Manifold Replacement Is $200-$1,100 Depending on If You Go to the Mechanic or DIY.
This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance may also be needed. For a more accurate estimate based on your make, model, and location, use the RepairPal Fair Price Estimator.
Cost at the Mechanic: $300-$1,100
Parts: $200-$600
Labor: $100-$500
Replacing an intake manifold typically takes at least two to four hours, but the time may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the difficulty of removing and replacing the manifold. While removing the old intake manifold can usually be done in less than one hour, installing the new one and reassembling all of the pieces takes time. Completing this service properly ensures your vehicle receives the right combination of air and fuel for optimal performance.
Cost to DIY: $200-$600
- Difficulty Level: Advanced
- Parts Needed:
- Intake manifold
- Intake manifold bolt set
- Intake manifold gasket set
While replacing your vehicle’s intake manifold can be expensive, there are some ways to save money. Compare the price differences between aftermarket and OEM parts. Some intake manifolds are made out of durable iron, so you could search for a used intake manifold to reduce your costs. Others are made out of plastic, in which case you’ll want to stick with a new one. Even if a used plastic intake manifold appears to be in good shape, plastic deteriorates during the numerous heating and cooling cycles it goes through, so it won’t last nearly as long as a new one.
Keep in mind: There are many different types of intake manifolds, and not all intake manifolds fit all vehicles. If you plan to replace your intake manifold yourself, be sure to choose the right parts to fit your vehicle. When in doubt, always refer to your owner’s manual.
What Is an Intake Manifold?
Your car’s intake system takes air from the air filter, through the intake system, and into the intake manifold. From here, the air is pulled into the cylinders through the valves as they open, mixed with fuel, and combusted inside the cylinders to generate power.
You can typically find your vehicle’s intake manifold on the side of an inline-engine, such as a four or straight-six cylinder, or in the center of a V-engine, like a V6 or V8, between the cylinder heads.
What Does an Intake Manifold Replacement Include?
Usually, when there’s an issue with an intake manifold, it’s because the manifold gasket failed. This piece often wears down more quickly than the rest of the intake manifold and is susceptible to damage. If this is the case, the mechanic will simply replace the gasket with a new one to prevent unwanted air from entering the system.
However, if there’s a larger problem, the mechanic may need to replace the entire intake manifold. Plastic manifolds, in particular, are prone to cracking and springing leaks, particularly as they get old. The replacement can take several hours and involves waiting for the engine to cool down, draining the engine coolant and possibly the oil, removing the intake manifold, and replacing the damaged parts.
What Happens If You Don’t Replace Your Intake Manifold?
If your intake manifold is faulty, worn down, or cracked, it’s important to replace it as soon as possible.
A damaged manifold allows air to enter without going through the intake system. Since the engine computer hasn’t accounted for this extra air, it will not create the proper air/fuel mixture. This will cause a lean running condition, which can lead to misfires and possible engine damage. This also means that unfiltered air can get into your engine, which could also lead to damage.
How Often To Replace Your Intake Manifold
While this part is designed to last for the entire lifespan of your car, you can experience issues with your vehicle’s intake manifold. That means there isn’t a specific maintenance schedule you need to follow to have this component replaced. However, it’s a good idea to check the condition of your intake manifold and its gasket when you complete other engine repairs to prevent potential issues.
Common Symptoms You Need to Replace Your Intake Manifold
A few common symptoms you may notice that indicate you may need to replace your vehicle’s intake manifold include:
- Check engine light
- Engine stalling or misfiring
- Oil or coolant leaks
- Illuminated check engine light
- Rough idling
- Unpredictable engine performance
- Poor gas mileage
You can use the FIXD sensor and app to
may also see the following on-board diagnostic (OBD) codes appear to warn you that there is an issue related to your vehicle’s intake manifold:
- P0300: Random, multiple misfire detected
- P0170: Fuel trim
- P0173: Fuel trim
- P2282: Air leak between throttle body and intake valves
Continuing to drive your vehicle after one of these OBD codes appears is not recommended since it may indicate an intake manifold vacuum leak or defective mass airflow sensor. Take your car to a trusted mechanic to have them identify the issue.
Related Maintenance Services
Here are a few related maintenance services that you might consider performing at the same time as your intake manifold replacement to save time and keep your vehicle running smoothly:
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