In short, replacement costs vary widely, but expect an installed engine replacement for a 2016 Dodge Journey to fall roughly in the mid-$4,000s to mid-$7,000s range, depending on engine choice and labor. This is a ballpark figure and actual quotes will depend on your location, shop, and whether you choose a new, remanufactured, or used engine.
The question hinges on the Journey’s two possible powerplants and the options around sourcing and installation. A 2016 Journey could be fitted with either a 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-four or a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. The price gap between these engines is driven by engine complexity, parts availability, and labor needs, and the total cost includes more than just the engine itself.
Engine options for the 2016 Dodge Journey
Here are the two engines that could power a 2016 Journey and key notes about each.
- 2.4L Tigershark inline-four (I4) — approximately 173 horsepower; used in base trims and early Journeys. Typically cheaper to replace than the V6 due to simpler design and components.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 — approximately 283 horsepower; higher performance option found in higher trims. Generally more expensive to replace because of greater complexity and parts costs.
Conclusion: The 3.6L V6 tends to drive up both engine price and installation complexity compared with the 2.4L option, so your total installed cost will reflect the chosen engine.
Price considerations and buying options
Prices are influenced by the source and condition of the engine, as well as installation costs. Use the following factors to estimate your total cost.
— new OEM from the dealer, remanufactured long block, or a used engine from a salvage yard. Each option carries a different price range and warranty profile. — a crate/new engine will cost more than a remanufactured or used unit; long-block versus a full engine assembly also affects price. — regional differences can push total installed price up or down; urban areas generally have higher labor costs. — timing chains/belts, water pump, gaskets, seals, sensors, hoses, and any timing procedures. Some quotes include these, others do not. — prior damage, engine removal difficulty, and the need for related repairs can add to cost.
Conclusion: Expect the total price to reflect not only the engine choice but also where you buy it, whether it’s new, remanufactured, or used, and how the shop prices labor and any ancillary work.
Getting an exact quote for your vehicle
For an exact price, contact local auto shops, dealers, and engine suppliers with your vehicle year, make, model, trim, VIN, and the engine option you want. Compare multiple quotes and check reviews and warranty terms. If the engine is being replaced due to a failed internal issue, you may also consider replacing related components (water pump, timing chain) in the same service to reduce labor costs.
- Prepare your VIN and confirm the correct engine option (2.4L or 3.6L) with your shop.
- Ask for a full quote with a breakdown: engine price, labor hours and rate, parts, core charge, and warranty terms.
- Request quotes from at least three providers for a robust comparison.
Conclusion: By obtaining multiple, itemized quotes, you’ll gain a clearer picture of the total cost and what’s included, helping you choose the best option for your budget and needs.
Summary
Replacing the engine in a 2016 Dodge Journey is a significant expense that varies with engine choice and sourcing. The two available engines—the 2.4L Tigershark and the 3.6L Pentastar—drive different price ranges, with the V6 typically costing more to replace. Installed costs generally run from roughly the mid-$4,000s to the mid-$7,000s or more, depending on whether you select a new, remanufactured, or used engine and your local labor rates. To secure an accurate number, obtain multiple, detailed quotes from reputable shops and confirm engine compatibility with your VIN.