Many car owners wonder: What does an engine overhaul cost? Especially when the engine starts to falter, consume oil or produce less power. An overhaul can be the solution to get your engine running like new again - but what are the costs, what does the price depend on, and why should you choose overhaul over replacement?
At Van Thiel Motor Revision we give you clear insight into the structure of 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 an Engine Overhaul Cost?
An engine overhaul is a smart and durable solution to get your car or van back in top condition. Whether it is power loss, high oil consumption or ticking noises, a professional overhaul will significantly extend the life of your engine. But why choose an engine overhaul, what are the costs and what should you look out for when choosing an overhaul specialist?
On this page, we explain what is involved in an engine overhaul, what factors determine the price and why Van Thiel Motor Revision has been the trusted address for engine overhaul in the Netherlands for years - with clear prices, craftsmanship and warranty.
Why choose an engine overhaul?
Engine revision is often a deliberate choice when the engine is underperforming or showing clear signs of wear. This may be due to long-term use, overdue maintenance or specific mechanical problems. Sometimes overhaul is also carried out preventively, to avoid greater damage or expensive repairs in the future.
An overhaul goes beyond simply replacing worn parts. It is a complete process in which the engine is dismantled, cleaned, checked and rebuilt with care and precision. As a result, the engine functions like new again and is ready for thousands of miles of reliable driving pleasure. With a proper overhaul, an engine can often last another 100,000 to 200,000 kilometres reliably!
What is the cost of an engine overhaul?
The cost of an 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:
3-cylinder engine overhaul: from €1,750 - €2,350
4-cylinder engine overhaul: from €1,800 - €3,500
5-cylinder engine overhaul: from €2,750 - €4,000
6-cylinder engine overhaul: from €3,500 - €6,000
Van or light commercial vehicle:
3-cylinder engine overhaul: from €1,750 - €2,350
4-cylinder engine overhaul: from €2,200 - €3,500
5-cylinder engine overhaul: from €2,750 - €4,000
6-cylinder engine overhaul: from €3,500 - €6,000
What does the cost of an engine overhaul depend on?
The cost of an engine overhaul depends on several technical and practical factors. An overhaul is tailor-made: no engine is identical in terms of wear, design or parts needed. Below, we explain which elements influence the price of an engine overhaul.
1. Engine capacity and type engine
The size and complexity of the engine plays a big role. A 4-cylinder 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.

Quality over quantity
Investing in a professional engine overhaul means investing in the future of your vehicle. Not only will you extend the life of your engine, but you will also ensure yourself better performance and reliability. In the long run, this can even lead to savings on maintenance and repair costs.
We use the best techniques and materials. This gives you better value for your money. In addition, a high-quality engine overhaul contribute to greater safety on the road. After all, a well-maintained and reconditioned engine is more reliable and performs consistently under different conditions.
Why Van Thiel Motor Revision?
Frequently asked questions about engine overhaul costs
Is an engine rebuild cheaper than a replacement engine?
Yes and no, this just depends on what needs to be overhauled. With an overhaul, you know exactly what happens to your own engine and retain original parts that are still in good condition. A replacement engine is often less transparent in terms of origin.
Can I also have just the cylinder head rebuilt?
Yes, we also carry out partial reviews, such as cylinder head revision or engine block honing. 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 an engine overhaul take?
Depending on engine and parts, usually between 5 and 10 working days. Urgency possible by arrangement.
Do you also do diesel engines?
Yes, see our separate page:
Diesel engine overhaul