Camshafts are made of two parts: a cam (or lobe) and a shaft. When the shaft part of a camshaft rotates, the cams push the engine's intake and exhaust valves open in sync with the crankshaft's gears. They do that courtesy of the timing belt, which connects the camshafts to the crankshaft. If you drive a newer vehicle, however, it may boast a more durable timing chain instead of a timing belt.

How Do Lifters Work?

The lifter is placed between the camshaft and the cylinder valves. When the camshaft moves over this cylinder, it actuates and temporarily opens the valve to allow air to flow either in or out, depending on the valve's function.

How Do I Spot Faulty Camshafts & Lifters?

Signs of failure include worn lifters failing to lift the valve as fully as they should, which may be identified by a clattering or tapping noise in the valve cover. If your engine misfires and you notice increased emissions, that could be due to worn cam lobes that don't fully open the valves. Finally, a broken camshaft may have been caused by a camshaft seizure -- which can then cause serious damage to other engine parts.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace Camshafts & Lifters?

Research shows that the average cost for a camshaft replacement is between $1,450 and $1,700. Labor accounts for $900 to $1,135 of that average expense, with the necessary parts running about $550 or so.

Of course, your vehicle influences that price. On average, a camshaft replacement on a Toyota Camry costs $600 less than the same work runs for a Toyota Corolla.

While lifters aren't particularly expensive, the labor costs are something to keep in mind. You can expect to spend between $1,000 and $1,500 in order to get the job done right, though that amount varies based on your year, make, and model, as well as where you're having the work done.

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