How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Cylinder Head?

There are lots of reasons why diesel is still king in heavy-duty applications. A well maintained diesel engine can last for ~1,250,000 kilometers (800,000 miles), but even the most optimistic lifespan figures need to be taken with a grain of salt–maintenance and usage habits play a huge role.But even the most durable engines require repairs over time. One of the most critical components that can fail is the cylinder head. When that happens, you’re looking at a significant repair bill.

So, how much does it cost to replace a cylinder head? The answer depends on several factors. Let’s break it down.

What Affects Cylinder Head Replacement Cost?

The cost to replace a cylinder head varies widely. For a diesel engine, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 or more. That’s a big range, so let’s look at the factors that affect pricing.

1. Type of Cylinder Head

Not all cylinder heads are created equal. Aluminum cylinder heads are lighter and more efficient, but they can be more expensive to replace than cast-iron versions. The complexity of the head (valve configurations, cooling passages, etc.) also impacts the price.

• A new head will always be more expensive than a remanufactured one, but it offers better reliability and longevity.
• If you’re replacing a single-cylinder head on an inline engine, it will generally cost less than replacing one (or multiple) on a V-engine configuration.

At Behind the 8, we only provide new cylinder heads, ensuring durability and peak performance for your diesel engine.

2. Labour Costs

Replacing a cylinder head is a labour-intensive job. The labour costs alone can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on:

• The make and model of your engine (some are easier to work on than others).
• How much additional work is required (removing turbochargers, fuel rails, and other components).
• Whether you’re using a dealer, independent shop, or doing it yourself.

3. Additional Repairs & Parts

A failing cylinder head rarely comes alone. Other parts often need replacement at the same time, which adds to the cost:

• Gaskets & Seals – Head gasket replacement is standard and can cost an extra $100 to $300.
• Coolant & Oil Change – A cylinder head failure can contaminate fluids, requiring a coolant flush and oil change.
• Machining & Resurfacing – If you’re reusing a head, it may need machining to ensure a proper seal.
• Injectors & Valves – Worn-out injectors or bent valves may need replacing as well.

When Should You Replace Your Cylinder Head?

If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to replace your cylinder head before it leads to bigger problems:

• Coolant loss – A cracked head can leak coolant, leading to overheating.
• Loss of power – Compression loss means your engine won’t perform as it should.
• White smoke – This could indicate coolant burning inside the combustion chamber.
• Milky oil – A sign of coolant mixing with oil, which can destroy your engine.

Finding the Right Cylinder Head

If you need a replacement, choosing a high-quality new cylinder head is essential for long-term reliability. At Behind the 8, we offer only new cylinder heads for heavy-duty diesel engines. Whether you need a direct OEM replacement or an upgraded option, we provide durable, high-performance parts to keep your engine running strong.

Get an Estimate Today

Every engine is different, and so is every cylinder head replacement. If you want an exact cylinder head replacement cost, contact us for a quote. Our team has over 25 years of experience helping diesel owners get back on the road with the right parts and expert advice.A failed cylinder head doesn’t have to mean the end of your engine. With the right replacement, you can extend the life of your diesel engine and maintain peak performance.