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Updated on Jan 31, 2024

John Davis

Expert Automotive Writer

Reviewed by Kathleen Flear, Director of Content

Edited by Jessica Barrett, Senior Car & Insurance Editor

What's on this page?

How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer?
Where can I get my crankshaft harmonic balancer replaced?
How will a mechanic replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer?
What happens if I don’t replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer?
What is a crankshaft harmonic balancer?
Can I replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer myself?
FAQs
Meet Our Experts

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How much does it cost to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer?

Typically, the average total replacement cost for a crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement is $315, with $168for parts and $147 for mechanic labor. Prices will vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model.

How long does it take to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer? It generally takes 1.2 hourshours for a certified mechanic to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer. Your mechanic will run a diagnostic test and inspect your vehicle to determine if a replacement is needed, then follow through with the replacement process.

Take a look at crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement costs for different vehicles:

Crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement cost for various vehicles

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 22, 2024	Marvin, 27 Charleston, SC	Toyota Corolla	$319	$149	$170	1.3 Hours
April 20, 2024	Tyler, 31 West Point, PA	Saturn L300	$235	$100	$135	1.3 Hours
April 15, 2024	Jerry, 40 Westfield, IN	Oldsmobile Intrigue	$341	$180	$162	1.3 Hours
April 15, 2024	Carl, 39 Brooklyn, NY	Mitsubishi Mirage	$329	$180	$149	1.3 Hours
April 14, 2024	Maurice, 41 Cheyenne, WY	Chrysler Chysler Town	$422	$258	$164	1.3 Hours

How did we estimate these prices?
Jerry's experts researched and collected data from 2500+ real repair shops in all 50 states in the US, including everything from the total cost of repair services to the hourly labor cost for mechanic labor in each shop. We combined that data with our expert database of hundreds of real repair jobs, thousands of real cars, millions of real car part prices in order to best estimate the cost of each repair service. Our labor cost estimate is calculated by taking the average hourly labor rate for a certified mechanic in the US, times the number of hours it takes on average to complete a repair. We recommend you compare your local shops with Jerry and contact those shops directly to get final pricing for your vehicle.

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What parts do I need for my crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Your owner’s manual should outline the parts needed for a crankshaft harmonic balancer, or you can ask a professional mechanic for your vehicle’s specifications. In general, you’ll need the following parts for a crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement:

Crankshaft harmonic balancer: The crankshaft harmonic balancer or harmonic damper—AKA the main component in the replacement process— is a pulley device, usually located near the crankshaft towards the front of the engine. The harmonic balancer is responsible for absorbing vibrations to maintain engine balance. The typical cost of a crankshaft harmonic balancer is $50 to $200.

Crankshaft bolt: The crankshaft harmonic balancer is attached to the front of the crankshaft using a bolt. This bolt is usually replaced during the balancer replacement, and the exact bolt will depend on your vehicle’s specs. Usually, a crankshaft bolt replacement costs $5 to $50.

Crankshaft key: The crankshaft key—or woodruff key—is a small metal piece that helps to correctly align the harmonic balancer. If the key is damaged or worn, it will need to be replaced with the harmonic balancer. Crankshaft keys typically cost $10 to $20.

Crankshaft seal: The crankshaft seal prevents oil leaks from the engine. This part isn’t typically replaced during a crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement, but it should be inspected for wear and tear. Crankshaft seals cost $5 to $50.

You can buy crankshaft harmonic balancer parts for your car from auto parts stores like AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts, and Advance Auto Parts, as well as online retailers such as Amazon and Summit Racing. Three brands we recommend for crankshaft harmonic balancer parts are Dorman, ACDelco, and Dayco. With this said, the right parts and brands for your vehicle’s crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement will vary based on its year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

Your crankshaft harmonic balancer is an integral part of your engine, so it’s important to get the best replacement part if yours goes bad.

OEM parts are generally recommended as they’re reliable and long-lasting, made of quality materials, and precisely designed for their designated vehicles. On the other hand, aftermarket harmonic balancers can be cheaper and usually come in a variety of options.

Both OEM parts and aftermarket parts offer warranties depending on the provider, so you’ll need to make a decision based on the quality value and pricing.

Key Takeaway: Stick to OEM parts if you want a longer lifespan and higher reliability, or opt for aftermarket parts if you need to cut costs.

Where can I buy parts for my crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement?

You can purchase parts for your crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement from auto parts shops like NAPA Auto Parts, AutoZone and Advance Auto parts, or online retailers like Amazon and Summit Racing, or you can go directly to the dealership for OEM parts. You may also find replacement parts at local independent auto shops.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my crankshaft harmonic balancer replaced?

With the rundown on 2,500+ vetted repair shops nationwide,

Jerry's GarageGuard™

can make the search for a mechanic to replace your crankshaft harmonic balancer a lot easier.

Jerry's GarageGuard™ compares fair price estimates from local shops using actual hourly rates. You’ll be able to budget for diagnostic fees and see reviews from previous customers to make sure you’ll be happy with your service.

Here’s a look at some of our vetted shops below—and you can download the app to compare car repair quotes in your area.

122 Reviews

EXSA Automotive

550 Hartrey Ave, Evanston, IL

Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$292

(Parts - $181, Labor - $111)

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (224) 227-9999

141 Reviews

Blue Sky Tire & Auto Service - Glenview

2200 Waukegan Rd, Glenview, IL

Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$375

(Parts - $181, Labor - $194)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$149.50

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (847) 998-1700

165 Reviews

Meineke Car Care Center 4350

8880 W. Bell Rd, Peoria, AZ

Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$349

(Parts - $181, Labor - $168)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$65

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (602) 326-2232

104 Reviews

Import Auto Service

6540 Edsall Rd, Springfield, VA

Crankshaft Harmonic Balancer Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$344

(Parts - $181, Labor - $163)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (703) 569-2332

How did we vet these shops?
Jerry experts researched 2500+ real repair shops across the US. We talked to real shop customers, and analyzed both real shop pricing data and thousands of real customer reviews from each shop to verify them individually. We do not partner with the shops listed above, and our analysis is always unbiased.

How will a mechanic replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer?

If you notice engine vibrations, misalignment with your engine’s timing marks, or strange engine noises, you may be dealing with a bad crankshaft harmonic balancer. Your mechanic will follow these steps to correctly replace your crankshaft harmonic balancer:

Preparation: Your mechanic will collect the appropriate tools to complete the replacement, including a screwdriver set, a harmonic balancer puller, a socket set, a breaker bar, a torque wrench, and any other vehicle-specific tools.

Disconnect the battery: For safety purposes, your mechanic will disconnect the vehicle's battery to ensure no electrical power moves through the vehicle during the replacement process.

Access the balancer: Your drive belts, pulleys, and your engine’s cover will be removed so your mechanic has access to the vehicle’s harmonic balancer.

Remove the balancer: Your mechanic will loosen and remove the crankshaft bolt, which secures the balancer to the crankshaft. Next, they’ll use a harmonic balancer puller tool to remove the balancer from the crankshaft.

Installation: Before installing the new harmonic balancer, your mechanic will clean the crankshaft snout and apply a thin layer of engine oil to help with the installation. Then, the mechanic will align the new balancer with the crankshaft and then slide it into place. If your vehicle also requires a new crankshaft bolt, key, or seal, those will also be applied at this time.

Torque the crankshaft bolt: Your mechanic will reinstall the old crankshaft bolt or install a new bolt. Based on the manufacturer’s instructions, the bolt will be secured with the appropriate torquing specifications.

Reassemble and Test: Lastly, any components that were removed to install the new balancer will be reinstalled. This includes the drive belts, pulleys, and the engine covers. Your battery will also be reconnected at this time, and your mechanic will start your engine to test for vibrations and noises.

What happens if I don’t replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer?

If you ignore a faulty or worn crankshaft harmonic balancer, any of the following potential issues could arise:

Engine imbalance

Harsh vibrations

Crankshaft damage

Drive belt issues (ex. Misalignment, excessive movement)

Pulley issues

Slippage

Decreased steering power

Timing belt misalignment

Engine seal leaks

What is a crankshaft harmonic balancer?

The crankshaft harmonic balancer—also known as a vibration damper—is a vital engine component designed to reduce harmonic vibrations and prevent damage.

Picture this: The explosions of fuel and air that power your car’s internal combustion engine create vibrations and torsional force on the crankshaft. Those vibrations can cause damage to internal components and throw off the engine timing. For these reasons, a crankshaft harmonic balancer is necessary.

The harmonic balancer attaches to the front of the crankshaft and is composed of a metal hub, a rubber damper, and a balance ring.

It connects to the crankshaft via the metal hub, while the rubber damper absorbs shocks and vibrations. The balance ring usually functions as the crankshaft pulley, powering engine accessories like the water pump, alternator, and AC compressor.

When should I replace the crankshaft harmonic balancer on my car?

The most common signs of a bad crankshaft harmonic include:

Visible damage: You may notice visible cracks or damage to balance when you inspect the part. If your harmonic balancer is loose, cracked, or separated, it will need to be replaced.

Excessive vibrations or weird noises: Your crankshaft harmonic balancer manages your engine’s vibrations, so if you feel harsh vibrations or hear strange noises coming from the engine bay of your vehicle, it may be due to a failing harmonic balancer. If left unchecked, these vibrations can affect other integral parts of your car.

Misalignment or pulley issues: A misaligned balancer, belt slippage, or pulley issues may be the result of a faulty crankshaft harmonic balancer. If these issues are not resolved, they can affect your vehicle’s overall performance.

Check engine light: Your check engine light will turn on if there is an issue with your crankshaft, including damage to your crankshaft harmonic balancer. Your mechanic can use an OBD-II scanner to check for trouble codes associated with the harmonic balancer.

How often should a crankshaft harmonic balancer be replaced?

Manufacturers do not typically outline specific lifespans or replacement intervals for crankshaft harmonic balancers. With this said, most crankshaft harmonic balancers last 50,000 miles or approximately 10 years.

Can I replace my crankshaft harmonic balancer myself?

If you’re a DIY car repair expert with the tools and knowledge to back the replacement, you may be able to replace your crankshaft harmonic balancer on your own.

However, a crankshaft harmonic balancer replacement requires a fair understanding of your engine’s complex components, and you’ll also need special tools. If you’re a DIY car repair beginner, opt for a trusted mechanic to ensure your crankshaft harmonic balancer is replaced correctly

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FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a harmonic balancer?

On average, it costs $315 to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer. This cost is made up of approximately $168 for parts and $147 for labor.

Can I drive with a bad harmonic balancer?

You can drive with a bad harmonic balancer, but the longer you drive without a well-operating balancer, the more issues you may experience with your vehicle. Driving with a bad harmonic balancer can lead to excessive engine vibrations, which can misalign belts and pulleys, and lower your engine’s performance.

How do I know if my harmonic balancer needs replacing?

There are a few common signs that it’s time for a new crankshaft harmonic balancer:

Visible damage such as cracks

Excessive vibrations

Strange engine noises

Check engine light

Misaligned pulleys and belts

How long does it take to replace a harmonic balancer?

On average, it takes 1.2 hours hours to replace a crankshaft harmonic balancer. The exact replacement timeframe is dependent on your vehicle’s make and model.

How often do harmonic balancers go bad?

There isn’t an exact timeline for crankshaft harmonic balancer replacements. In fact, some crankshaft harmonic balancers can last as long as their partner engine.

With this said, crankshaft harmonic balancers typically last 50,000 miles or approximately 10 years. The exact lifespan of your harmonic balancer will vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and engine type.

Meet Our Experts

John Davis

Car Expert

Certified mechanic with 10+ years of experience

John Davis is an expert automotive writer and former automotive mechanic. John's work spans multiple categories, and he relishes the opportunity to research a new subject and expand his area of expertise and industry knowledge. To date, John has written more than 200 articles covering car maintenance and care, car advice, how-to guides, and more.

Prior to joining Jerry’s editorial team, John worked as a mechanic and freelance writer, creating content for clients including HotCars and SetPower.

Jessica Barrett

Car Expert

Jessica Barrett is a senior insurance writer and editor with 10 years of experience in the automotive and travel industries. A specialist in car insurance, car loans, and car ownership, Jessica’s mission is to create comprehensive content that car owners can use to manage their costs and improve their lives. As a managing editor for a team of writers and insurance specialists, Jessica has edited over 2,000 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from local insurance shopping tips to refinancing car loans with bad credit.

Before joining Jerry as a senior content editor in 2021, Jessica created visual content for clients such as Expedia, Vivid Seats, Budget Direct Car Insurance, Angie’s List, and HomeAdvisor. Her content was published in Business Insider, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, and the BBC.

Kathleen Flear

Car Expert

Kathleen Flear is an expert insurance writer and editor who heads up Jerry’s editorial team as director of content. Kathleen empowers drivers to make smart car ownership decisions through best-in-class articles on insurance, loans, and maintenance. Prior to joining Jerry in 2021, Kathleen served as managing editor for a team of SEO content marketing professionals at Article-Writing.co and worked as a freelance writer and editor for a range of digital publications, including Chicago Literati magazine and Golden Words. She earned a bachelor’s degree in English language and literature from Queen’s University, and a master’s degree in creative writing and fiction from Sierra Nevada University.

*The price information provided on our car repair webpages is intended for general informational purposes only. Actual prices for car repair services may vary based on various factors, including but not limited to the make and model of your vehicle, the extent of repair required, and the prevailing market conditions. All prices for real repair shops are estimations based on our research only. Therefore, the prices listed on our webpages should not be considered as final quotes or binding offers.