How Much Does It Cost to Replace the Engine of a Moped?

The cost of replacing a moped engine can vary widely, depending on several factors such as the make and model of the moped, the type of engine, and whether you opt for a new, used, or rebuilt engine.

New Engine Prices

A new engine for a moped can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on the specifications. This can be a significant investment, especially if you're working with a high-performance or modern moped model. For a less complicated engine, such as a 4-cylinder or a flat 6-cylinder motorcycle, the cost might be higher, closer to $2,500. However, for a dirt bike, the cost may be more reasonable, around double the cost of a motor.

Used Engine Prices

A used engine is a more economical option. It can cost between $200 and $800, but availability can vary. Some scrapyards may offer used engines at a lower cost, about one-fifth of the repair estimate for a new engine.

Rebuilt Engine Prices

A rebuilt engine will typically cost around $300 to $1,000. This option is viable if you want to avoid the cost of a brand new engine or if a used engine is not available. The repair process can vary in complexity, so the cost of labor for installation can add another $100 to $300 to the overall cost, depending on the mechanics and the complexity of the job.

Additional Considerations

Overall, you can expect to spend between $600 and $2,000 or more for a complete engine replacement. However, if your expectations are lower and you find a used or rebuilt engine, the total cost can be less. The key is to weigh the trade-offs between the quality of the engine and your budget.

A Personal Experience

Back in 1995, I purchased a second-hand Cagiva Alazzurra 350. This was a nice bike, nine years old with low mileage and well-maintained. It came with a one-year guarantee from the dealer who sold it. After some months of riding, the bike started producing an unpleasant mechanical noise, especially during load conditions like uphill or two-passenger rides. I visited the dealer, and although they changed the oil, adjusted the chain tension, and performed a few other maintenance tasks, the noise persisted.

After a year and 10,000 kilometers, the noise had not disappeared. During a test ride, the noise became more pronounced and could be heard even at idle. Eventually, the engine seized with a loud "THUD" while the bike was stationary. A mechanic found that the main shaft bearing, behind the primary gear transmission, had exploded, sending metal balls and pieces of its rings into the engine. The repair estimate was very close to what I had paid for the entire bike. Unfortunately, the guarantee had just expired, and the repair cost was unaffordable at the time.

However, the summer season was approaching, and we needed the bike for a beach trip. A friend suggested that I visit a vehicle breaker just outside the town, where he found a bike just like mine, but with a bent front end due to an accident. The breaker was willing to sell the bike’s engine for a reasonable price and even offered to walk me through the disassembly process, sparing me the cost of a new engine.

With my girlfriend's assistance, we removed the old, broken engine and fitted the "new" one. The engine eventually started and functioned well for several years, until we eventually sold the bike to purchase a larger one.