Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine, introduced for the 2003 model year on Dodge Ram pickups, replaced the Magnum 5.9 engine and rapidly became the flagship V8 across Dodge, Chrysler, Jeep, and Ram vehicles  It remained in production through 2024 and was re‑introduced in the 2026 Ram 1500 lineup

Known as a “third‑generation Hemi,” it features a 90° V8 pushrod design with hemispherical combustion chambers. With a displacement of 5.654 L (345 cid), the engine produces approximately 360–395 hp and 410 lb‑ft of torque in modern applications

 Key Technologies & Technical Specs

Multi‑Displacement System (MDS)

Starting in 2005, many 5.7‑liters gained MDS, which can deactivate four cylinders during light load driving to boost highway fuel economy by 10–20% . Manual‑transmission versions and heavy‑duty models typically lack MDS.

Dual Spark Plugs

Each cylinder has two spark plugs firing sequentially, ensuring efficient combustion and better throttle response

Variable Valve Timing (VVT) & Active Intake Manifold

VVT—added in 2009—optimizes timing across the rev range. The active intake manifold switches between long and short runners for low‑end torque and high‑RPM power.

Construction

• Bore x stroke: ~3.92 × 3.58” (99.5 × 90.9 mm).

• Lightweight cast alloy design with slipper pistons (~413 g), windage tray, and a serpentine belt/damper combo .

• Compact packaging: engine length ~21.1″, weight ~485 lb including manifolds and flexplate (accessories excluded) .

 Real‑World Performance

Power & Fuel Economy

When paired with MDS and fuel‑management features, Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine-equipped trucks achieved highway mileage comparable to V6s—about 21 MPG in a Jeep Grand Cherokee MDS variant  Even without MDS, the engine offers strong torque at low RPM and broad drivability.

Reliability & Common Issues

The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine has produced a mixed reputation:

• Numerous owners report issues such as the infamous “Hemi tick”, a camshaft/lifter noise often emerging after ~80,000 mi

• Failures of exhaust-manifold bolts (due to aluminum block–cast iron manifold expansion mismatch) are also relatively common, though often dealership‑covered before ~70k mi

Still, many Reddit users praise its durability:

 Purchasing Options: Types & Pricing Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

A. Used Engines (Complete Motors & Drop‑out Assemblies)

• Listings on platforms like eBay often show used complete assemblies (from Dodge Ram, Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, etc.) typically priced between $1,700 and $5,000, depending on mileage, year, and condition .

• For example: a Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine was listed at $1,709.95; other entries from 2007–2009 Dodge Ram listings ranged from $3,200–$4,800

B. Remanufactured or Rebuilt Engines

• Companies like Fraser Engine Co offer remanufactured engines with two tiers:

  • Standard Build (~$3,699 + core deposit): built to OEM spec, includes heads, gaskets, oil pump; 3‑year/100k mi warranty; shipping ~$300, plus core deposit ~$900.

  • Fraser Advantage (~$3,999 + core): above‑OEM spec, includes all TSB updates, high‑integrity components, spin‑tested runs, CNC valve work, enhanced pistons, PTFE coatings; 5‑year/unlimited miles warranty

C. Crate Engines

• Long-block crate engines are available from suppliers like Summit Racing & ATK. For instance:

  • ATK 5.7 Gen III Hemi 400 HP Long Block (~$4,800, free shipping, ~$460 core fee)

  • VEGE Remanufactured Long Block models for specific years, shipping later in August 2025, prices with core charges ~$4,500+

Price Comparison

 What to Look For Before Buying

1. Compatibility: Not all 5.7s are identical. MDS, VVT, model year, VIN code determine whether it’s suited for Ram 1500, Durango, Challenger, etc. Ensure the engine matches your vehicle’s configuration.

2. Mileage & History: Used engines with documented lower mileage are preferable. Post‑2009 VVT engines are smoother.

3. Condition & Warranty: Remanufactured engines are attractive for their warranty coverage and internal rebuild quality.

4. Common Issue Inspection:

   • Request proof of manifold bolt replacement or upgrade.

   • Ask if camshaft/lifter assemblies were refurbished.

   • Confirm if intake manifold cleaning or replacement is recommended—as some manufacturers refuse warranty if the intake isn’t thoroughly cleaned or replaced

5. Core Fees & Shipping: Typically $500–900 refundable deposit, plus shipping $200–300. Confirm return policy for core unit.

 Why Buy a Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine?

• Proven power and torque across a variety of vehicles—great towing capability, throttle response, and rumble.

• Fuel economy advantage via MDS, giving roughly V6-like mileage during highway cruising

• Wide availability of engine components, rebuild kits, aftermarket support, and service knowledge.

• Relatively affordable replacement options, whether remanufactured or used.

• Refreshed market interest: Stellantis is resuming production of the Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine as of August 2025, reflecting continued demand among enthusiasts

 Installation & Maintenance Tips

• Mandatory intake manifold cleaning or replacement during engine swaps. Metal debris from the previous engine can damage new components and void warranty

• Use high‑quality synthetic oil (e.g., Mobil 1 5W‑30) and maintain regular oil changes (~every 5‑10k miles). Many owners found reduced “tick” noise with proper lubrication

• Manifold bolts are known weak points: inspect, replace or upgrade proactively.

• If your engine includes MDS, let the system cycle fully especially during break-in; avoid covering the engine with oil additives that may disable MDS.

 What to Expect When Buying Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

Example Scenario A: Fraser Advantage Remanufactured

• Price: $3,999 engine + $900 core deposit + $250 shipping = ~$4,900 total up front.

• Premium build quality, tuned upgrades, fully tested, 5‑year unlimited warranty.

• You provide core and install; intake cleaned or replaced separately.

Scenario B: Used Complete Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine

• Price: $1,709.95 from eBay listing .

• No warranty, mileage unknown—repairs likely needed. Cheaper entry point but higher risk.

Scenario C: Summit/ATK Crate Long Block

• Price: ~$4,800 with core charge return.

• Balanced option: core returnable, built to spec, long‑block means you supply accessories & harnesses.

 Final Thoughts

If you want reliable power and classic V8 performance with decent fuel economy, the Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine remains an excellent engine choice. While some reliability issues like the “Hemi tick” and manifold bolt failures are known, many owners report bullet‑proof long‑term service with proper maintenance.

• Go used if you’re budget‑limited but prepared to inspect condition and possibly rebuild.

• Choose remanufactured for peace of mind, warranty protection, and quality assurance.

• Crate engine is middle ground—nearly OEM spec, fast delivery, but still requires accessories and core return.

With new factory production resuming and strong buyer interest for 2026‑model vehicles, parts and resale value of the Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine are expected to remain stable or rise slightly

Recommended Steps Before Purchase

1. Define your intended use: project rebuild, daily driver, heavy towing.

2. Verify engine compatibility per VIN and drivetrain.

3. Inspect or request documentation on manifold bolt replacements and cam rebuilds.

4. Compare warranty coverage: none (used) vs. 3‑yr or 5‑yr reman engines.

5. Budget for installation materials—gaskets, intake cleaning, filters, fluids.

6. Arrange core deposit refund process.

7. Plan installation with a reputable shop familiar with Hemi systems.

Conclusion: The Dodge 5.7L V8 Hemi Engine is a proven, torquey, and relatively economical American V8 with decades of use across Dodge, Jeep, and Ram platforms. Whether you’re sourcing a used drop‑in or investing in a remanufactured engine, evaluate condition, support, and install readiness. New production resumed in August 2025, and there’s renewed demand from enthusiasts. If you’d like specific vendor links, check guides, or installation advice, I’m happy to help!