Diesel injector seals / copper washers (leaking, "black death"): how much does it cost?

Q: How much does diesel injector seals / copper washers (leaking, "black death") cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$490–NZ$1,120 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$510–A$1,160 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Typically NZ$490–NZ$1,120 in New Zealand and A$510–A$1,160 in Australia, including GST. SUVs, utes and 4WDs.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$100–NZ$300	2.5–5 h	—	NZ$490–NZ$1,120
Australia	A$90–A$280	2.5–5 h	—	A$510–A$1,160

Totals use a standard workshop rate of NZ$120 or A$140 an hour and a 25% parts markup, plus GST. Your workshop's rate and parts prices will differ.

What affects the price

Re-seal without new injectors: washers, hold-down bolts, return lines. Carbonised wells (Hilux 1KD, Navara) take longer to extract.

Other engine cooling repairs

Head gasket replacement (4-cylinder)NZ$1,830–NZ$4,090
Head gasket replacement (V6 / flat-4 / twin-head engine)NZ$3,860–NZ$7,330
Head gasket replacement (diesel ute, 4-cylinder)NZ$3,300–NZ$6,340
Water pump replacement (belt-driven, not behind timing cover)NZ$340–NZ$770
Water pump with timing belt kit (timing-belt-driven pump)NZ$770–NZ$1,970
Water pump inside timing cover (chain engine)NZ$980–NZ$2,100
Radiator replacement (Japanese car / small SUV)NZ$470–NZ$960
Radiator replacement (ute / 4WD / European)NZ$780–NZ$1,850
Thermostat and housing replacementNZ$200–NZ$780
Radiator cooling fan motor or fan assemblyNZ$350–NZ$1,280

Researched by Credov in October 2026 from NZ and Australian parts suppliers and workshop price guides. Typical ranges, not quotes: ask a workshop for a quote before you rely on a price. All repair costs.