How much does a Rotax engine cost

So you're wondering what a Rotax aircraft engine will set you back? The answer isn't simple, honestly. Depending on the model, whether it's new, rebuilt, or used, and what bits and pieces come with it, prices swing wildly. You could snag a used, low-time Rotax 912UL for maybe $15,000, or drop over fifty grand on a brand-new, fully loaded Rotax 915 iS. That huge range? It's because these engines have this solid rep for being reliable, lightweight, and sipping fuel, especially in the light-sport and experimental plane world.

What is the price range for a new Rotax 912 engine?

The Rotax 912 ULS, that 100 hp beast, is the one everyone wants for light-sport aircraft. A brand new one? Expect to pay somewhere between $25,000 and $32,000, just for the base engine. That usually gets you the motor, exhaust, air intake, and the sensors. But don't get too excited—that price tag often leaves out the propeller, the engine mount, and any labor for installation. If you want the fuel-injected Rotax 912 iS, you're looking at $32,000 to $38,000 new. It's pricier, but people swear by the injection.

How much does a Rotax 915 iS cost?

Then there's the Rotax 915 iS. This one's a whole different animal—turbocharged, fuel-injected, pumping out 141 hp. It's built for the higher-performance light-sport and experimental crowd. A new 915 iS will run you between $45,000 and $55,000. That steep price comes from the fancy turbo system, electronic fuel injection, and the fact it keeps pulling strong at higher altitudes. If you want a complete kit with all the bells and whistles, you could be looking at nearly $60,000. Ouch.

What is the cost of a used or rebuilt Rotax engine?

If your wallet's feeling a bit light, used Rotax engines might be the way to go. Prices really depend on total time since new (TSN) or since overhaul (TSO). A used Rotax 912 UL (80 hp) with 500-1000 hours? You can find those for $12,000 to $18,000. A similar used 912 ULS? That's more like $15,000 to $22,000. Rebuilt or factory-remanufactured engines sit in the middle, usually costing 60-70% of a new one. So for a Rotax 912 ULS, think $18,000 to $25,000. It's a compromise, I guess.

What factors influence the total cost of a Rotax engine?

The engine price is just the start, seriously. There's a bunch of other stuff that pushes the total cost way up:

• Core model: A 912 UL (80 hp) is way cheaper than a 912 ULS (100 hp) or the 915 iS (141 hp). Big difference.
• New vs. used vs. rebuilt: New engines have a warranty, but used ones? You're gambling a bit.
• Accessories and installation: Propeller, engine mount, exhaust, instruments—all that can tack on $5,000 to $15,000.
• Installation labor: Getting a pro to install it at an authorized Rotax service center costs $2,000 to $5,000. Maybe more.
• Shipping and taxes: These engines are big. Freight shipping might be $300 to $800.

Rotax Engine Cost Comparison Table

What is the cost of Rotax engine maintenance and overhaul?

Rotax engines have this recommended Time Between Overhaul (TBO) of 2,000 hours for the 912 series and 1,500 hours for the 915 iS. A complete overhaul? That's $8,000 to $15,000 at an authorized center, depending on the model and what parts need swapping. Yearly maintenance is pretty cheap, though—maybe $500 to $1,500 for oil changes, inspections, and small parts. Honestly, they're cheaper to keep up than a lot of other aircraft engines.

Checklist: What to consider before buying a Rotax engine

• Figure out the horsepower your aircraft actually needs.
• New, used, or rebuilt? Think about your budget and how badly you want a warranty.
• Don't forget installation costs: engine mount, propeller, instruments.
• Check if there are any authorized Rotax service centers near you.
• If buying used, check the engine's total time (TSN/TSO) and maintenance history.
• Include shipping and import taxes if you're buying from overseas.
• Plan for regular maintenance costs and that TBO expense down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)