Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine debuted in the 2003 Dodge Ram 1500, replacing the older 5.9 Magnum engine. Over the years, it powered a wide range of models including Ram trucks, Dodge Charger/Durango, Challenger, Chrysler 300C, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and more. It features a classic hemispherical combustion chamber design, pushrod architecture, 345 cubic inches displacement, and (in many versions) Chrysler’s Multi‑Displacement System (MDS) which deactivates half the cylinders during light load for improved fuel efficiency.

Originally built in Saltillo, Mexico, the Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine earned multiple inclusions on Ward’s 10 Best Engines list (2003–2007, 2009).

 Types of Engines Available Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

A. New or Genuine Crate Engines

• Mopar Performance “Eagle” Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine: OEM crate engine (~383 hp, 417 lb‑ft torque, non‑MDS version), priced around $5,400–$7,500 with no core charge.

• Modern Muscle Xtreme offers MOPAR 5.7L HEMI truck crate engines for ~$6,700 retail.

B. Remanufactured / Rebuilt Long‑Block Engines

• Fraser Engines sells remanufactured 5.7L units:

  • Standard Build: ~$3,699 + $900 core deposit + ~$300 shipping. 3‑year / 100k‑mile warranty.

  • Fraser Advantage Build: ~$3,999 + same core/shipping; includes TSB updates and 5‑year/unlimited‑miles warranty.

  • ATK / Titan Engines offer reman models for $3,380–$4,100 depending on casting year and application.

• JASPER Engines also remanufactures Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine with a nationwide 3‑year/100,000‑mile parts & labor warranty.

C. Used or Salvaged Engines

Listings on eBay and Kijiji show used engines from older Rams or Chargers for $1,500–$4,500, depending on mileage and condition.

 Pricing Breakdown

Industry discussions suggest crate engines alone can cost $4k–$8k, and a full shop-installed swap may reach $8k–$13k.

 Reliability & Common Issues

The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine is generally considered robust, but certain recurring issues are well documented:

• Exhaust manifold bolt failures or manifold cracking due to aluminum block vs cast-iron manifold thermal mismatch—causes the “HEMI tick.

• Camshaft/lifter failures, often resulting in costly repairs; many owners opt for full replacement rather than repairing individual components.

One Reddit user reported a quote of $9,547 just for cam+lifter replacement, while total replacement by the shop was estimated at $13–14k. Others commented that for that kind of money, purchasing a complete low-mile used or reman engine is more cost-effective.

 Things Buyers Should Consider

Compatibility

• Confirm compatibility with your year/model. Many reman engines are VIN‑specific.

• Some crate and remanufactured engines come with or without MDS—important if your vehicle originally had cylinder deactivation.

Warranty Coverage & Core Policies

• Vendors like Fraser offer core deposits (refundable upon returning your old engine).Warranty length and scope varies: 3‑year/100k‑mile up to 5‑year/unlimited mileage or labor coverage plans.

Performance Needs

• Standard engines are stock spec (~390 hp). Performance crate engines (e.g. ATK HP103) can deliver up to 400 hp or more.

• Consider whether you want bolt-ons or pre-installed custom cams.

Installation & Hidden Costs

• Expect additional costs: intake manifold cleaning/replacement (required for warranty), fluids, labor, updated parts.

• Shops frequently charge $7k–$14k total for engine + labor.

 Recommended Suppliers

• Fraser Engines — reputable reman with strong warranty (3–5 yr), full TSB updates

• ATK / Titan Engines — well-known reman provider, priced $3,380–4,100 depending on fitment/year.

• JASPER Engines — live-run tested, transferable nationwide warranty, long-standing reputation.

• Genuine Mopar Crate Engine / Mopar Performance — OEM build, no core, preconfigured builds.

Buying Tips & Checklist

1. Define your use case: street daily, towing, performance build, restoration, etc.

2. Decide engine type:

   • Cheapest: used salvage engines ($1,800–4,500)

   • Mid‑range: reman standard or premium builds (~$3,500–4,000)

   • Higher-end warranty or performance crate (~$5,000–7,000+)

3. Clarify warranty details: what’s covered, deductible, labor inclusion.

4. Ensure intake manifold cleanliness—many suppliers require replacement to keep warranty valid.

5. Ask about shipping and core charges—some suppliers waive core if you return old unit quickly.

6. Get installation quotes separately; do not assume base engine price includes labor.

7. Read user reviews and forums—issues like lifter/cam failure, manifold bolt breakage are well documented.

Real‑World Owner Feedback From Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

From Reddit discussions:

These experiences align with the pricing and risk trade-offs discussed above.

Summary & Recommendations

• The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine remains a classic V8 choice, balancing muscle‑car performance and (with MDS) decent fuel economy.

• Available options range from budget used engines (~$2k‑4k), trusted remanufactured builds (~$3.5k‑4k), to OEM performance or premium crate units (~$5k‑7k+).

• Total installation cost—including labor, parts, shipping—can push projects into $8k–13k territory, so plan accordingly.

• Watch for common failure points: manifold bolts/ticks and cam/lifter wear—upgrade or preempt these during installation.

• Best-value route: reputable reman (Fraser, ATK/Titan, Jasper) with strong warranty; upgrade intake; budget installation separately.

• Choose a crate engine if you need OEM-new condition, consistent spec, and prefer plug-and-play—but expect a higher price.

Final Thoughts On The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

If your goal is a reliable replacement that won’t void your wallet, start with a reputable reman long‑block like one from Fraser or ATK/Titan, paired with proper manifold cleaning or replacement. Upgrade to a premium crate unit only if you value factory-new condition and warranty coverage, or if you’re building a performance vehicle.