Prices for a replacement engine on a 2006 Dodge Charger vary widely by engine type and source. Engine alone typically ranges from roughly $1,500 to $6,000, with installation adding about $800 to $2,500 depending on shop and locale.
The 2006 Charger lineup offered several powerplants: a base 2.7-liter V6, a 3.5-liter V6, and the performance-oriented 5.7-liter Hemi V8 available on RT models. Availability and pricing depend on whether you buy a used, rebuilt/remanufactured, or new crate engine, and the numbers below reflect typical market ranges as of recent years.
Engine options for the 2006 Dodge Charger
Before detailing the price ranges, note that the actual cost depends on the source and condition. The following are typical prices for engines alone, not including labor.
- 2.7L V6 — Used: about $1,000–$2,000; Remanufactured/Rebuilt: about $2,000–$3,500; New crate/long-block: about $3,000–$4,500.
- 3.5L V6 — Used: about $1,600–$3,000; Remanufactured/Rebuilt: about $2,500–$4,000; New crate/long-block: about $3,500–$5,000.
- 5.7L Hemi V8 (RT) — Used: about $2,500–$4,000; Remanufactured/Rebuilt: about $4,000–$6,000; New crate/long-block: about $5,500–$7,500.
Labor and ancillary costs are not included in the engine prices above. Installation typically ranges from roughly $800 to $2,500, depending on the shop, location, engine type, and whether additional work is required (transmission compatibility, wiring harness, exhaust, cooling system, etc.).
Buying options and tips
When replacing the engine on a 2006 Charger, you have several sourcing options. Each has trade-offs in price, warranty, and certainty about condition:
- Used engines from salvage yards or online marketplaces can be the cheapest option but come with the least reliability and limited or no warranty.
- Remanufactured or rebuilt engines offer a balance of price and reliability and typically come with a warranty (often 12–24 months, depending on the vendor).
- New crate engines (from Mopar or third-party manufacturers) provide the most reliability and a factory-like warranty but are usually the most expensive option.
- Verify compatibility with your vehicle’s VIN, ensure matching engine code (e.g., engine family), and confirm you’re getting the correct transmission integration and ECM compatibility.
Where you buy also matters. Local shops can provide hands-on diagnostics and warranties, while national suppliers and reputable remanufacturers may offer broader warranties and shipping options. Always request a warranty and read the fine print about mileage caps and what is covered.
What else to consider
Beyond the engine price, consider related costs such as labor rates, potential ancillary repairs (gaskets, timing chain/belt, water pump, hoses, oil pan, exhaust fittings), and the cost of a diagnostic check after installation to verify the engine runs properly.
It’s also worth evaluating whether a full engine replacement is necessary or if a less invasive repair or a used engine swap with low mileage would suffice. A trusted mechanic can help assess condition via compression tests, leak-down tests, and a full inspection of the cooling and fuel systems.
Summary
For a 2006 Dodge Charger, engine prices vary widely by engine type and sourcing. The 2.7L and 3.5L V6 options are cheaper than the 5.7L Hemi, and prices range from around $1,000–$2,000 for a used 2.7L up to $4,000–$6,000 for newer remanufactured or crate 5.7L units, with labor adding several hundred to a couple thousand dollars. Always factor in warranties, compatibility, and total installed costs when budgeting for a replacement motor.