Small engines power many essential machines such as lawn mowers, generators, chainsaws, pressure washers, tillers, and snow blowers.
This guide provides a detailed small engine repair cost chart covering nearly all common repairs, along with explanations of what influences pricing and when professional service is recommended.
Small Engine Repair Cost Chart
| Repair Type | Typical Symptoms | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Diagnostic / Inspection Fee | Unknown issue, engine won’t start | $40 – $100 |
| Spark Plug Replacement | Hard starting, misfires | $10 – $35 |
| Spark Plug Wire Replacement | Weak or intermittent spark | $20 – $60 |
| Air Filter Replacement | Reduced power, rich running | $15 – $40 |
| Fuel Filter Replacement | Stalling, fuel starvation | $20 – $50 |
| Fuel Line Replacement | Fuel leaks, air bubbles | $30 – $80 |
| Fuel Tank Cleaning | Contaminated fuel | $50 – $120 |
| Carburetor Cleaning | Rough idle, surging | $60 – $150 |
| Carburetor Adjustment | Poor throttle response | $40 – $90 |
| Carburetor Rebuild | Fuel leaks, clogging | $120 – $250 |
| Carburetor Replacement | Severe corrosion | $180 – $400 |
| Choke Repair / Adjustment | Cold start problems | $40 – $100 |
| Throttle Cable Replacement | No throttle response | $30 – $90 |
| Governor Adjustment | Engine overspeeding | $60 – $150 |
| Governor Repair / Replacement | RPM fluctuation | $100 – $250 |
| Oil Change | Routine maintenance | $30 – $75 |
| Oil Seal Replacement | Oil leaks | $120 – $300 |
| Valve Adjustment | Hard starting, backfiring | $80 – $200 |
| Valve Replacement | Low compression | $200 – $450 |
| Head Gasket Replacement | Overheating, white smoke | $200 – $450 |
| Cylinder Head Resurfacing | Compression loss | $250 – $500 |
| Compression Test | Power loss diagnosis | $40 – $90 |
| Ignition Coil Replacement | No spark | $90 – $180 |
| Flywheel Key Replacement | Sudden no-start | $60 – $140 |
| Flywheel Replacement | Engine vibration | $150 – $350 |
| Recoil Starter Repair | Pull cord won’t retract | $40 – $100 |
| Recoil Starter Replacement | Starter failure | $80 – $200 |
| Pull Cord Replacement | Broken rope | $25 – $70 |
| Electric Starter Repair | Clicking, no crank | $120 – $250 |
| Electric Starter Replacement | Starter motor failure | $150 – $350 |
| Starter Solenoid Replacement | No power to starter | $60 – $150 |
| Battery Replacement (Electric Start) | No crank | $40 – $120 |
| Charging System Repair | Battery not charging | $100 – $250 |
| Alternator / Stator Replacement | Electrical failure | $150 – $400 |
| Wiring Repair | Intermittent shutdown | $80 – $200 |
| Kill Switch Replacement | Engine won’t shut off | $40 – $120 |
| Muffler Replacement | Excessive noise | $70 – $200 |
| Exhaust Valve Repair | Power loss | $180 – $400 |
| Piston Ring Replacement | Oil burning | $300 – $650 |
| Piston Replacement | Knocking noise | $350 – $800 |
| Connecting Rod Replacement | Engine knock | $400 – $900 |
| Crankshaft Repair | Severe vibration | $450 – $1,000 |
| Crankshaft Replacement | Engine seizure | $600 – $1,400 |
| Camshaft Replacement | Timing issues | $250 – $600 |
| Timing Gear Replacement | Backfiring | $200 – $500 |
| Engine Mount Replacement | Excessive vibration | $80 – $200 |
| Belt Replacement | Loss of drive | $40 – $120 |
| Pulley Replacement | Belt slipping | $60 – $180 |
| Clutch Repair (Chainsaw / Tiller) | No power transfer | $80 – $200 |
| Clutch Replacement | Slipping clutch | $150 – $400 |
| Drive Shaft Repair | No movement | $200 – $500 |
| Gearbox Repair | Grinding noise | $250 – $600 |
| Gearbox Replacement | Severe gear damage | $400 – $1,000 |
| Water Pump Repair (Pressure Washer) | Low pressure | $150 – $400 |
| Pump Replacement (Pressure Washer) | No pressure | $300 – $800 |
| Engine Overhaul | Severe internal wear | $500 – $1,200 |
| Short Block Replacement | Internal failure | $700 – $1,600 |
| Complete Engine Replacement | Catastrophic damage | $700 – $2,500 |
Related Small Engine Oil Filter Cross Reference(For All Brands + Models)
What Affects Small Engine Repair Costs?
Several factors influence how much you’ll pay for small engine repairs:
Engine Size and Type
Larger engines (V-twin, OHV, or commercial-grade engines) cost more to repair than smaller push mower or handheld engines due to higher part prices and increased labor.
Labor Rates
Labor typically ranges from $60 to $120 per hour, depending on location and shop reputation. Urban areas usually charge more than rural repair shops.
Parts Availability
OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are more expensive than aftermarket alternatives. Rare or discontinued engines may cost more due to limited parts availability.
Severity of Damage
Minor maintenance tasks are inexpensive, while internal engine damage, such as piston, crankshaft, or valve issues, significantly increases costs.
Related Best Motor Oil for Small Engines(Top 5 Best 2026)
Common Repairs Explained
Carburetor Services
Fuel-related problems are among the most common small engine issues. Ethanol-blended fuel often causes carburetor clogging. Cleaning is usually affordable, but replacement becomes necessary if corrosion or severe blockage is present.
Ignition System Repairs
Ignition coils, spark plugs, and wiring failures often result in no-spark conditions. These repairs are moderately priced and commonly required after long storage periods.
Starting System Repairs
Pull-start and electric-start issues are frequent complaints. Broken recoil springs, worn starter gears, or weak batteries are typically straightforward and affordable fixes.
Internal Engine Repairs
Low compression, excessive oil consumption, or knocking noises usually indicate internal wear. These repairs are costly and often lead owners to consider engine replacement instead.
Related Engine Liters to Cubic Inches Chart(For All Engine Sizes)
Repair vs. Replace: Which Makes Sense?
As a general rule, if repair costs exceed 50–60% of the replacement cost, replacing the engine or equipment may be the better option. For example, spending $800 to rebuild a residential lawn mower engine may not be practical when a new mower costs $1,200.
Commercial-grade engines, however, are often worth repairing due to their durability and higher replacement costs.
How to Reduce Small Engine Repair Costs
- Perform regular oil changes and air filter replacements
- Use fresh, ethanol-free fuel when possible
- Drain fuel before long-term storage
- Run the engine periodically during the off-season
- Address minor issues early before they cause major damage
Preventive maintenance can save hundreds of dollars over the life of a small engine.
Related How to Reset the Check Engine Light(In 4 Easy Methods)
Final Thoughts
Small engine repair costs range from simple, low-cost maintenance to expensive internal rebuilds or replacements. Having a clear understanding of common repair prices helps you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses. Whether you own a lawn mower, generator, or power equipment, this small engine repair cost chart serves as a practical reference for budgeting and maintenance planning.
Regular upkeep and timely repairs remain the most effective way to extend engine life and minimize long-term costs.
