How Much Does Camshaft Replacement Cost in UAE?
Camshaft replacement in the UAE costs between AED 1,200 and AED 5,000 in 2026. The final cost depends on engine type, the number of camshafts (single or twin overhead cam), and parts availability for your specific vehicle. Japanese four-cylinder engines with a single camshaft are at the lower end of this range. European and Japanese twin-cam engines, V6 engines, and V8 engines with four camshafts are at the higher end.
Camshaft Replacement Price Table UAE 2026
| Engine Type | Part Cost (AED) | Labour (AED) | Total Estimate (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4-cyl SOHC (Japanese/Korean) | 400 – 800 | 600 – 900 | 1,200 – 1,800 |
| 4-cyl DOHC (Japanese/Korean) | 600 – 1,200 | 700 – 1,000 | 1,500 – 2,500 |
| 4-cyl DOHC (European) | 800 – 1,500 | 800 – 1,200 | 1,800 – 3,000 |
| V6 (twin-cam per bank) | 1,200 – 2,000 | 1,000 – 1,500 | 2,500 – 4,000 |
| V8 / Luxury | 1,500 – 3,000 | 1,200 – 2,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 |
What Is a Camshaft and What Does It Do?
The camshaft is a precision-machined shaft with eccentric lobes that open and close the engine valves in synchronisation with the crankshaft and combustion cycle. Each valve has its own lobe. As the camshaft rotates, each lobe pushes the valve open against the spring, then releases it to close. On overhead camshaft engines the shaft sits in the cylinder head above the valves. On overhead valve (pushrod) engines it sits in the block and operates the valves via pushrods and rocker arms. The camshaft is driven from the crankshaft by a timing belt, chain, or gears, and must remain in precise synchronisation with it at all times.
Symptoms of a Worn Camshaft
- Ticking or tapping from the top of the engine, particularly at idle when cold
- Engine misfire on one or more cylinders (check engine light with misfire codes)
- Loss of power and reduced acceleration
- Higher fuel consumption than normal
- Variable valve timing fault codes (P0011, P0014, P0021, P0024) on modern engines
- Failed engine oil analysis showing elevated iron content
What Causes Camshaft Wear?
Camshaft lobes are lubricated by the engine oil supply. The two most common causes of premature camshaft wear are oil starvation and the wrong oil grade. In UAE summer conditions, using an oil that is too thin for the ambient temperature results in reduced oil film thickness at the cam lobe surfaces, leading to metal-to-metal contact and progressive lobe wear. Extended oil change intervals allow the oil to degrade and thicken, restricting flow to the top of the engine where the camshaft runs. Cold start operation without allowing the oil to circulate before driving hard is also a contributing factor.
How to Save Money on Camshaft Replacement in UAE
- Combine the camshaft replacement with a timing chain or belt and tensioner service since access is identical
- Ask whether the camshaft follower or rocker arm surfaces in the head are also worn and need attention
- Request OEM or OEM-equivalent quality camshafts – cheaper aftermarket units have shorter service life on modern engines with tight clearances
- Use GarageBuddy to compare quotes from certified engine workshops across UAE