You can expect an average total replacement cost of $458 for an oil pan replacement, with $215 for parts and $244 for mechanic labor. The exact price will depend on your vehicle.

How long does it take to replace an oil pan? In general, it takes around 2.1 hours for a certified mechanic to complete the job. Your mechanic will perform a preliminary inspection to determine if a replacement is necessary, then follow through with the full replacement.

Here’s an overview of oil pan costs for different vehicles:

Oil pan replacement cost for various vehicles

Estimate Date	Customer	Car	Fair Cost Estimate	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Labor Time
April 25, 2024	Mae, 20 Jamestown, NC	Buick Century	$400	$124	$276	2.4 Hours
April 23, 2024	Lida, 24 Hollywood, FL	Mazda 5	$399	$124	$276	2.4 Hours
April 16, 2024	Julian, 36 Memphis, TN	Maserati Quattroporte	$422	$142	$280	2.4 Hours
April 14, 2024	Ruby, 39 Orlando, FL	Nissan Sentra	$435	$177	$257	2.4 Hours
April 11, 2024	Lettie, 45 Sparks, NV	Tesla Model Y	$485	$177	$308	2.4 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.

Get a free fair cost estimate for my car

See fair price estimates for popular cars

What parts do I need for my oil pan replacement and how much do those parts cost?

Your owner’s manual should list the parts required to do the job, but you can also ask a mechanic or auto part store specialist. Here’s what you’ll most likely need:

Oil pan: This is the main part of your replacement. Remember that you’ll also need a socket and ratchet set to remove the old pan and install the new one. A new pan generally costs anywhere from $150 to $1,000.

Oil pan gasket, optional: You might need an oil pan gasket replacement if the gasket looks worn—and don’t skip this repair since a cracked gasket is guilty of causing oil leaks. The new gasket might come with the oil pan, but you can purchase it separately starting at $15 to over $100.

Keep in mind: You’ll also need specialized tools like an oil filter wrench, torque wrench, floor jack, and jack stands to complete the replacement.

Some reputable brands we recommend include Dorman, Fel-Pro, and Spectra Premium for reliable and quality oil pan replacements. You can typically purchase these brands from retailers such as RockAuto, Amazon, and NAPA Auto Parts, both online and in-store. However, like price, recommended brands may also vary depending on your vehicle's specific year, make, and model.

Should I buy OEM or aftermarket parts?

If you’re hoping to save money on repairs, an aftermarket part should be fine. While OEM parts tend to be more reliable—and often come with a warranty—you’ll have to find some extra cash to purchase them. Aftermarket oil pan parts will get the job done for less.

Where can I buy parts for my oil pan replacement?

Shop at nearby auto parts stores like RockAuto, Amazon, and NAPA Auto Parts. You can also find parts online, but just be sure to choose parts that fit your vehicle.

Find out what parts are recommended for my car

Where can I get my oil pan replaced?

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

GarageGuard™

can make the search for a mechanic to replace your oil pan 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.

187 Reviews

Jedix Automotive

8086-D Alban Rd, Great Falls, VA

Oil Pan Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$544

(Parts - $185, Labor - $359)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$119

Compare this shop for free with Jerry 703-372-1999

128 Reviews

Roger's Tire Pros - Meridian

3304 W Ustick Rd, Boise, ID

Oil Pan Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$523

(Parts - $185, Labor - $338)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$130

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (208) 629-5980

115 Reviews

Discount Tire & Service Centers - San Bernardino

101 W Base Line St, San Bernardino, CA

Oil Pan Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$574

(Parts - $185, Labor - $389)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$150

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (909) 693-3059

116 Reviews

Hankey Farms Auto Services

7720 Steubenville Pike, Pittsburgh, PA

Oil Pan Replacement Cost

Fair Cost Estimate for This Shop

$574

(Parts - $185, Labor - $389)

Shop Diagnostic Fee

(Included in service charges)

$149.95

Compare this shop for free with Jerry (412) 787-9662

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 oil pan?

Because the oil pan is a simple reservoir with a drain plug, many home mechanics think a DIY oil pan replacement is quick and easy. Unfortunately, most times it isn’t. You typically have to remove or disassemble engine components in order to access the oil pan.

Here’s what a mechanic will do for an oil pan replacement:

Raise the vehicle using a floor jack and jack stands.

Remove the oil drain plug to drain the remaining oil from the oil pan.

Remove the engine mounts or components to access the oil pan.

Take out the oil pan bolts, gasket, and damaged oil pan.

Run a band of sealant to hold the gasket to the new oil pan.

Install the new oil pan, along with a new oil filter.

Reattach the bolts to the oil pan and reassemble the engine mounts or components.

Screw the drain plug bolt back in place and lower the vehicle.

Replace the engine oil and start the engine.

Check for oil leaks.

What happens if I don’t fix my oil pan?

It’s hard to overstate how serious a damaged oil pan is. If you wait too long to replace the pan, your vehicle could develop major issues (and you’ll be footing a very expensive repair bill).

If you drive with a broken oil pan and your engine doesn’t get enough oil to stay lubricated, and you’ll likely encounter the following:

Engine overheating

Engine damage

Engine failure

What is an oil pan?

The oil pan is a metal reservoir under the engine that holds the engine oil your car needs to stay lubricated. The pan is bolted to the engine block, and the oil pan gasket provides a seal to prevent leaks.

What are the symptoms of a leaking oil pan?

It’s not easy to physically inspect the oil pan unless you remove it, but there are several signs an oil pan may need to be replaced:

Oil leaks from under the engine: Oil leaks can weaken the oil pan, causing it to deteriorate faster. If you notice dark brown or black oil puddles below the oil pan area, get your vehicle inspected as soon as possible.

The oil warning light comes on: This is a sign that a lot of oil has already leaked and the oil level is too low.

The engine overheats: If there’s not enough motor oil lubricating the engine, the increased friction overheats the engine. You might also see a check engine light.

The oil level drops quickly: Pay attention to the oil level on the dipstick. If you notice it suddenly drops between oil changes, the oil pan might be leaking.

How often should an oil pan be replaced?

Luckily, most oil pans don’t have to be replaced at all! They’re one of the most durable parts of your car, with many lasting the life of the vehicle. However, they can become damaged, and if they do, you shouldn’t wait to replace it. Keep an eye out for signs of a faulty oil pan and take your vehicle to a mechanic when necessary.

Can I replace an oil pan myself?

While you might be tempted to save on repair costs by doing your oil pan replacement at home, the job requires automotive experience and knowledge of your vehicle’s engine. If this has you sweating (or you don’t have the specialized tools to do the job), you’re better off leaving it to the pros.

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FAQs

Can you drive with a damaged oil pan?

It’s never a good idea to drive when your car is leaking oil or has low oil levels. If your oil warning light comes on, get to a gas station or repair shop and check the oil level.

Do you have to pull the engine to replace the oil pan?

While you don’t have to take out the engine, two of the engine mounts have to be removed to take the oil pan off and you might have to remove other engine components depending on your vehicle. This means the engine needs to be supported while the oil pans are swapped out.

What causes damage to the oil pan?

If the oil pan comes into contact with something sharp at high speed, it can puncture. Over time, a worn drain plug can also cause an oil pan leak.

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.