Rear main (crankshaft) seal, gearbox out (front-wheel drive): how much does it cost?

Q: How much does rear main (crankshaft) seal, gearbox out (front-wheel drive) cost in New Zealand?

Typically NZ$600–NZ$1,280 including GST at a NZ$120 an hour workshop rate (A$650–A$1,380 in Australia at A$140 an hour).

Typically NZ$600–NZ$1,280 in New Zealand and A$650–A$1,380 in Australia, including GST. Cars.

	Parts (trade)	Labour	Sublet	Total incl GST
New Zealand	NZ$30–NZ$120	4–8 h	—	NZ$600–NZ$1,280
Australia	A$25–A$110	4–8 h	—	A$650–A$1,380

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

Seal is cheap; labour is gearbox removal. Do the clutch at the same time on a manual if it is worn (clutch kit extra).

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.