Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, your instrument is more than wood and strings—it’s your voice. Keeping it in great condition is vital, but sooner or later, every player asks the same question: How much does guitar repair cost?
The answer depends on the type of repair, the shop or luthier you choose, and even where you live. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common repair prices as of 2025, explain what factors affect the costs, and share ways you can save money (without sacrificing quality).
Bench Rates vs. Fixed Costs
Most guitar shops charge in one of two ways:
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Bench Rate (Hourly Pricing): You’re billed by the minute or hour, usually ranging from $100–$125 per hour, with a minimum shop fee around $30–$35.
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Fixed Rate Pricing: Common, predictable jobs—like a restring or setup—have flat fees.
Hourly rates kick in when repairs are complex or unusual, while fixed prices cover the standard services most guitarists need.
Common Guitar Repair Costs (2025 Estimates)
Here are the most common repairs and their average price ranges in the U.S. and Canada this year:
Standard Maintenance
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Restring only – $30 to $40
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Standard setup (electric or acoustic) – $65 to $145 (plus strings)
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Classical, 12-string, or Floyd Rose setup – $100 to $150
Fretwork
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Fret dressing or leveling – $175 to $200+
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Full refret – $350 to $600, depending on wood and binding
Nuts, Saddles & Bridges
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Nut or saddle replacement – $70 to $165, plus a setup
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Bridge reglue (lifting) – $250+ setup
Structural Repairs
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Minor headstock crack – $120 to $200, plus setup
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Severe headstock break (complete detach) – $345+ setup
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Neck reset (bolt-on) – $575+
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Neck reset (dovetail joint) – $700+
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Body crack repair – $120 to $240
Electronics
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Component replacement (pots, switches, jacks) – $30+ part cost
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Pickup installation (single) – around $75
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Pickup installation (full set) – $110–$135
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Active pickup installation (EMG, Fishman, etc.) – $170 to $200+
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Electronics diagnosis – $30 minimum, then hourly
Factors That Affect Guitar Repair Costs
Several things influence what you’ll actually pay:
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Location: Big cities or specialist shops tend to be more expensive.
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Complexity: A Floyd Rose tremolo or 12-string guitar takes more time than a standard six-string.
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Parts: Premium nuts, saddles, or pickups cost more.
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Urgency: Rush jobs may add 20–40% to the bill.
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Shop reputation: A boutique luthier often charges more, but the craftsmanship can be unmatched.
DIY vs. Professional Repairs
Not every problem needs a trip to the repair shop. Basic maintenance like cleaning pots, tightening hardware, or minor adjustments can be done at home with the right tools.
A smart option for many players is the GuitarGuard Premium Guitar Repair Kit. It’s a well-rounded toolset that lets you handle restringing, truss rod tweaks, hardware adjustments, and light repairs yourself. While major structural fixes should always be left to professionals, having a kit like this saves money and helps you care for your guitar between shop visits.
Real-World Examples
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Many guitarists report paying around $100 for a professional setup that includes truss rod and saddle adjustments.
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A cracked headstock repair often runs between $150 and $350, depending on severity.
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Pickup swaps are usually under $100 for passive models, but active systems can double that cost.
These ballpark figures give you a sense of whether your shop’s quote is fair.
Estimated Cost Chart (Quick Reference)
| Service | Typical Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Restring | $30–$40 |
| Setup (electric/acoustic) | $65–$145 |
| Setup (Floyd Rose/12-string) | $100–$150 |
| Fret dress/level | $175–$200+ |
| Full refret | $350–$600 |
| Nut or saddle replacement | $70–$165 |
| Pickup install (single) | $75 |
| Active pickup install | $170–$200+ |
| Electronics repair (per hour) | $100–$125 |
| Headstock crack repair | $120–$200+ |
| Neck reset | $575–$700+ |
| Bridge reglue | $250+ |
Value Over Cost
While it’s easy to focus only on the numbers, remember that guitar repair is about more than just price. A proper setup makes your guitar easier to play, keeps it in tune longer, and protects your investment. Regular maintenance prevents small issues from turning into expensive disasters.
If you’re on a budget, learning a few basic DIY skills and investing in a repair kit can save you hundreds over time. But for structural work, electronics rewiring, or anything that involves glue and clamps—leave it to the experts.
FAQs on Guitar Repair Costs
Q1. How much does a guitar setup cost?
A standard setup usually costs between $65 and $145, depending on the guitar type and complexity.
Q2. Does guitar restringing include a setup?
No. A restring is usually $30–$40, while a setup is priced separately.
Q3. What’s the most expensive guitar repair?
Neck resets and severe headstock breaks are among the most expensive, often $500–$700+.
Q4. Can I do minor guitar repairs myself?
Yes. Simple jobs like tightening tuners, cleaning pots, or swapping strings can be done with a good repair kit. For example, the GuitarGuard Premium Guitar Repair Kit is designed exactly for this purpose.
Q5. Is paying more for a guitar luthier worth it?
In many cases, yes. High-end instruments or vintage guitars benefit from expert care, even if the cost is higher.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does guitar repair cost? It can be as little as $30 for a quick restring or several hundred dollars for structural work. The best approach is to understand what your guitar needs, weigh the value of professional care, and learn which fixes you can safely handle at home.
That way, you’ll keep your instrument sounding great—and avoid surprise bills.
Author bio:
Dr. Robin Alexander
Dr. Robin Alexander, an MD Pathologist and passionate guitarist, combines his love for music and science. As a guitar enthusiast, he shares valuable insights and tips on guitar playing here at Guitarmetrics, helping musicians enhance their skills and enjoy their musical journey.
