What are the diesel engine overhaul costs and what should you look out for when determining the right approach? Many vehicle owners and businesses wonder this when their diesel engine shows signs of wear and tear. You may notice power loss, increased oil consumption or strange noises while driving. But when is revision the right choice - and what exactly will it cost?
At Van Thiel Motor Revision we give you clear insight into the structure of diesel engine overhaul costs. Thanks to our many years of experience in engine revision for passenger cars and vans, we know exactly what is involved in a good revision. We are happy to explain which factors affect the price, provide guidelines per engine type and help you with honest, tailor-made advice. So you know where you stand in advance.
What does a diesel engine overhaul cost?
Overhauling a diesel engine is a cost-effective way to get your vehicle or machine performing reliably and powerfully again. But what are the cost of a diesel engine overhaul, and what should you look out for when comparing prices? On this page we explain which factors determine the overhaul costs, provide clear guide prices and tell you why Van Thiel Motor Revision is the specialist in diesel engine overhaul in the Netherlands.
What exactly does diesel engine overhaul entail?
A diesel engine overhaul means that the complete engine is dismantled, cleaned, checked and, where necessary, rebuilt with new or machined parts. This includes replacing piston rings, bearings, gaskets, valves and retaining rings. Also cylinder head revision, crankshaft machining or honing cylinders can be part of the overhaul process.
The result: an overhauled diesel engine with once again reliable performance, lower oil consumption and longer service life.
What does a diesel engine overhaul cost on average?
The cost of a diesel engine overhaul depends on several technical and practical factors. An overhaul is tailor-made: every engine is different in terms of construction, wear and components.
Average guide prices:
Passenger car:
4-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €1,800 - €3,500
5-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €2,750 - €4,000
6-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €3,500 - €6,000
Van or light commercial vehicle:
4-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €2,200 - €3,500
5-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €2,750 - €4,000
6-cylinder diesel engine overhaul: from €3,500 - €6,000
What does the cost of a diesel engine overhaul depend on?
The cost of a diesel engine overhaul depends on several technical and practical factors. An overhaul is tailor-made: no two engines are identical in terms of wear, design or parts needed. Below, we explain which elements influence the price of a diesel engine overhaul.
1. Type of diesel engine
The size and complexity of the engine plays a big role. A 4-cylinder diesel is easier (and therefore cheaper) to overhaul than a 6-cylinder.
2. Degree of wear and damage
For an engine with only normal wear and tear, a standard overhaul is often sufficient. But if there is overheating, seized bearings or damage to the cylinder head or crankshaft, the costs quickly mount up due to extra machining or replacement of expensive parts.
3. Replacement parts
The availability and price of parts (such as pistons, bearings, gaskets and atomisers) varies by make and model. We always use original or aftermarket A-quality parts.
4. Type of overhaul: complete or partial overhaul
In a complete overhaul, all rotating parts are checked and renewed. For a partial revision (e.g. only the cylinder head or lower block), the costs are naturally lower. In consultation, we always determine what is technically and economically most sensible.
5. Necessary operations and working hours
Some engines require additional operations such as cylinder honing or drilling, cylinder head flattening, crankshaft grinding or atomiser testing. Each operation requires specialised tools and costly working hours, which affects the price.

What is included in a diesel engine overhaul?
At Van Thiel Motoren Revisie, there is a standard diesel engine overhaul Among others, from:
Full engine disassembly and inspection
Cleaning of all engine parts
Replacing wear parts such as bearings, piston rings, gaskets and retaining rings
Machining of cylinder head, cylinders, crankshaft or connecting rods (if necessary)
Mounting according to factory standards
Checking for compression, oil pressure and fits
After revision you will receive clear installation instructions and advice about the running-in of the overhauled engine.
Why Van Thiel Motor Revision?
Frequently asked questions about diesel engine overhaul costs
Which is cheaper: diesel engine overhaul or replacement?
An overhaul is usually 30% to 50% cheaper than a new or exchange engine. In the process, you keep the original engine that fits perfectly in your vehicle.
Can I also have just the cylinder head rebuilt?
Yes, we also perform partial overhauls, such as cylinder head overhaul or camshaft inspection. Contact us for a quote.
How do I know if my engine is due for an overhaul?
Watch for symptoms such as blue smoke, high oil consumption, knocking sounds or power loss. Also check out our page: When to overhaul engine?
How long does a diesel engine overhaul take?
Depending on engine and parts, usually between 5 and 10 working days. Urgency possible by arrangement.