Intake Manifold Repair Cost Guide
Plastic Intake Manifold
Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Labor Cost: $250-$375
Parts Cost: $150-$400
Total Estimated Cost: $400-$775
Note: Plastic manifolds often need complete replacement due to warping or cracking.
Aluminum Intake Manifold
Labor Time: 2-4 hours
Labor Cost: $250-$500
Parts Cost: $300-$800
Total Estimated Cost: $550-$1,300
Note: Aluminum manifolds can sometimes be repaired rather than replaced, potentially reducing costs.
Variable Length Intake Manifold
Labor Time: 3-5 hours
Labor Cost: $375-$625
Parts Cost: $500-$1,200
Total Estimated Cost: $875-$1,825
Note: These advanced manifolds contain electronic components and actuators that may need additional diagnosis.
Composite Intake Manifold
Labor Time: 2-3 hours
Labor Cost: $250-$375
Parts Cost: $200-$500
Total Estimated Cost: $450-$875
Note: Composite manifolds typically require complete replacement when damaged.
*Prices are estimates only. Actual costs may vary depending on vehicle make, model, year, and condition. Additional parts or repairs may be needed based on inspection findings.
Intake Manifold Repair Procedures by Type
Single Plane Intake Manifold
Repair Steps:
- Disconnect battery negative terminal
- Remove air intake components and throttle body
- Label and disconnect all vacuum lines and electrical connections
- Remove fuel rails and injectors if present
- Remove all intake manifold bolts in reverse torque sequence
- Clean gasket surfaces thoroughly
- Inspect for cracks or warpage
- Install new gaskets
- Reinstall manifold using proper torque sequence
- Reconnect all components in reverse order of removal
Dual Plane Intake Manifold
Repair Steps:
- Follow same initial steps as single plane removal
- Take extra care with split-plane gasket alignment
- Check for cracks between upper and lower sections
- Inspect plenum divider for damage
- Replace all gaskets, including plenum gasket
- Ensure proper torque sequence for both upper and lower sections
- Check runner-to-head seal integrity
- Reassemble in reverse order
Variable Length Intake Manifold
Repair Steps:
- Disconnect battery and remove engine covers
- Test actuator function before removal
- Document positions of all variable components
- Carefully disconnect actuator linkages
- Remove manifold following standard procedures
- Inspect all moving parts for wear
- Replace actuator if faulty
- Verify proper operation before complete reassembly
- Calibrate actuator if required
Composite Intake Manifold
Repair Steps:
- Allow engine to cool completely
- Follow standard removal procedures
- Inspect carefully for stress cracks
- Check for warpage due to heat cycling
- Replace entire unit if cracked (cannot typically be repaired)
- Use new gaskets and seals
- Torque bolts carefully - do not overtighten
- Follow manufacturer's specific torque specifications
Important Notes:
- Always consult vehicle-specific repair manual
- Use new gaskets and seals for every repair
- Follow proper torque specifications and sequences
- Check for vacuum leaks after repair
- Clear any engine codes after repair
- Test drive to ensure proper operation
Note: These are general repair procedures. Specific vehicles may require additional or modified steps. Always consult manufacturer documentation for exact specifications.
Understanding Intake Manifolds
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Common Failure Symptoms of Intake Manifold Systems
Common Intake Manifold Issues and Maintenance Guide
Plastic Intake Manifolds
Signs of Failure:
- Vacuum leaks causing rough idle or stalling
- Cracking or warping due to heat cycles
- Coolant leaks (if coolant passages are present)
- Check Engine Light activation
- Decreased fuel economy
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 60,000 miles for cracks or deterioration. No regular replacement interval unless issues are found.
Aluminum Intake Manifolds
Signs of Failure:
- Gasket failure leading to vacuum leaks
- Corrosion in coolant passages
- Warped mounting surfaces
- Poor engine performance
Service Schedule:
Generally lifetime parts with no scheduled replacement. Inspect gaskets during major engine service or if symptoms occur.
Variable Length Intake Manifolds
Signs of Failure:
- Actuator motor failure
- Stuck or broken butterfly valves
- Loss of power at specific RPM ranges
- Check Engine Light with related codes
Service Schedule:
Inspect actuators and moving components every 80,000 miles. Clean carbon deposits during intake service.
Composite Intake Manifolds
Signs of Failure:
- Delamination of materials
- Internal runner deterioration
- Air leaks at joining points
- Performance decrease over time
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 70,000 miles for material integrity. Replace gaskets if manifold is removed for any reason.
Note: These are general guidelines. Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific maintenance schedules and follow manufacturer recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
