If you think your 5.7 Liter Vortect intake gasket needs replaced, you are not alone. Many people have reported their engine running rough, idle problems, and even check engine light problems once they notice something is wrong.
The intake manifold pulls air from the throttle body to deliver it to the internal combustion engine cylinder compartments. You will need a new 5.7 Vortec intake manifold gasket if the problem is identified as a result of the intake manifold gasket.
The cost of an intake manifold gasket replacement on a 5.7 liter Vortec engine will average $600. The overall price can range from $430 to $1,000 depending on needing an upper, lower, or both manifold gaskets replaced. The lower manifold gasket will take more time than the upper gasket, resulting in a higher cost than just replacing the upper manifold gasket.
A new 5.7 Vortec intake manifold gasket can be purchased at your local auto parts store, dealership, or online retailer. The cost of parts to replace one or both of these gaskets will average $25. Depending on the type of gaskets you buy, this range will be from $10 to $50.
If you decide to do this job yourself, it is possible, but be warned that it can be difficult. The time it takes to complete the job ranges from 4 to 8 hours, and you will need special tools like a gasket scraper, torque wrench, and intake manifold removal tool.
If you do not feel comfortable doing the work yourself or do not have the proper tools, you can always hire a mechanic to complete it for you.
We’ll uncover everything you should know about replacing your intake manifold gasket(s) on your 5.7 Liter Vortec engine, including what the symptoms are, how much it will cost, and what you need to complete the replacement job yourself if you choose to.
What Does an Intake Manifold Do?
An intake manifold is a part of the engine that helps control the airflow into the cylinders. The intake manifold pulls air from the throttle body and sends it into the engine. The intake manifold needs to be in good condition as it can affect how well the engine runs.
A standard engine has an intake manifold on the bottom and a cylinder head on top of each cylinder. The intake manifold contains gaskets to separate the cylinders from each other. The gasket separates the two components so no air or liquids can enter with the air going into the combustion chamber.
This seal is critical as it keeps the air and fuel mixture separated until combustion. If the gasket is damaged or leaks, it can cause air to leak into the cylinders. This will cause the engine to run poorly and lead to performance issues and even engine failure.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a 5.7 Liter Vortec Intake Manifold Gasket?
The cost of replacing a 5.7 liter Vortec intake manifold gasket will vary depending on the shop that does the work, but you can expect to pay an average of $600. This is a best-case scenario if it’s just an intake manifold gasket that needs to be replaced and nothing else needs work, but sometimes the cost of parts dramatically outweighs the cost of labor.
The hours involved to replace an intake manifold gasket also significantly affect the cost of the job. Expect to pay more if a lower gasket needs to be replaced; this job requires around 4 hours for an upper gasket and up to 9 hours for a lower gasket replacement.
Cost of Getting Intake Manifold Replaced By a Mechanic
Replacing an intake manifold gasket is not a job for the faint of heart, as it can be pretty tricky. If you have never replaced an intake manifold gasket, you should have a professional do it for you. You’ll also need special tools that you may not already have in your garage.
Not only will a professional mechanic have the correct tools, but they will also have the knowledge and experience to do the job right. Having a professional do the job is around $65-$100 per hour.
If you take your vehicle in and let them know what the problem is, they should be able to give you an accurate quote for labor and parts. Parts from a mechanic will be around $50.
The total cost to have a mechanic replace your upper, lower, or both gaskets will range from $430 to $1,000. If you’re only replacing the upper gasket, the cost will be on the lower end of the range, while replacing the lower or both gaskets will be on the higher end of the average.
Cost to Replace Intake Manifold Gaskets Yourself
If you choose to do the job yourself and think you can handle it, first make sure that your vehicle’s engine is completely cool. Once you have let the engine cool, start by removing all the hoses from the intake manifold and disconnecting all wiring or connected sensors.
Remove the intake manifold bolts and brackets before removing the intake manifold itself. It is much easier than pulling all the pieces off one by one. Be sure not to damage any of these components if you need them for your repair.
Assemble your tools ahead of time, ensuring that you have the correct socket size. You will also need a gasket sealant, like Permatex Ultra Black RTV Gasket Maker. This can be found at most auto parts stores.
It is a relatively easy job if you are only replacing the upper intake manifold gasket. If you are replacing the lower intake manifold gasket, it is a more difficult job, and you should have some experience with car repairs before attempting it.
The cost of the parts for this job will be around $30. You can expect to spend about 6 hours on the job if it is your first time, and between 3 and 5 hours if you have done this before.
What Are the Signs of a Bad Intake Manifold Gasket?
There are many signs that you may have a bad intake manifold gasket. It’s essential to identify any aberrations in your vehicle’s performance because this can be an indication of a bigger problem, such as bad gaskets.
Some minor signs that may indicate that you have a leak in the intake manifold include
Rough idle when hot
Milky oil
Engine stalling while driving when hot
Engine stalling while driving when cold
Oil leak at the back of the engine near the exhaust manifold (this is a sign of a cracked intake manifold gasket)
Coolant leak from the engine
Engine Misfires
Lost in power
Lost in performance
Some of these signs will not be initially obvious for most drivers and may only be discovered after some time. If you’re unsure of any of the signs mentioned above, you should see a mechanic as soon as possible.
You may also be getting indicators from inside your vehicle. For example, if your Check Engine Light is on, it most likely means either a problem with the engine’s internal sensors or issues with the engine itself.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s crucial to get them checked out as soon as possible. The cost to replace a bad intake manifold gasket is inexpensive, compared to the costs associated with more severe problems.
You must know how to identify any signs of a bad intake manifold gasket because this could be solved by simply replacing the gasket.
How Long Can I Drive With a Bad Intake Manifold Gasket?
Replacing the 5.7-liter Vortec intake manifold gasket is something that needs to be done pretty quickly if you don’t want to damage your car, but can it wait for a little bit?
Is an Intake Manifold Gasket Replacement Necessary Right Away?
It all depends. If you are driving with a bad intake manifold gasket, it will worsen. A faulty intake manifold gasket can lead to a host of different problems, from oil pressure loss to severe engine knocking and more.
The best advice is to get it fixed immediately if you notice any 5.7-liter Vortec intake manifold gasket symptoms.
You could possibly drive for months with a bad intake manifold gasket and not realize it if there are no leaks or your engine is not running rough or stalling out. Always pay attention to any signs your vehicle may be giving you and have it looked at as soon as possible.
Conclusion
The cost of a 5.7 Vortec intake manifold gasket replacement varies depending on whether you replace it yourself or have a professional do it and whether the lower intake manifold needs to be replaced as well.
Expect to spend between $430 and $1,000 for this job if you bring your vehicle into a mechanic shop.
If you choose to do the job yourself, expect to spend around $30 on parts and between 4 and 9 hours working on your car. Although this is not a simple task without some mechanical knowledge, it can save you quite a bit of money.
Don’t let a lousy gasket cost you even more money. Make sure you get it replaced as soon as possible and save your money for other essential expenses on your vehicle. Good luck with your repair!