Your engine’s radiator, along with coolant, plays the important role of regulating your engine’s temperature. You won’t get very far without a radiator in proper working condition. That’s why, when your radiator malfunctions, you’ll need to get it fixed right away. But how much will fixing a radiator cost? Continue reading below to find out. If you still have questions after reading, don’t hesitate to reach out to a member of our team of automotive professionals. We’re happy to answer any questions and point you in the right direction any day of the week!
How Much to Fix a Radiator
Radiator Replacement Costs
Replacing a radiator or fixing a fan can cost anywhere between 100 and 900 dollars if you’re taking your car to the shop. A typical replacement, however, is often around 400 dollars. How much it costs to fix a radiator varies greatly from vehicle to vehicle and depends on how you choose to get it fixed.
Many late model cars from the 70s, 80s and earlier had radiators made entirely of metal, often copper or brass. These radiators could actually be repaired. If it sprang a leak, you could fix the leak and keep using the same radiator. Newer vehicles use radiators that are built from an aluminum core (the part with the tubes and fins) and plastic end tanks (the black parts on the sides or top and bottom of your radiator where the hoses connect). These are very difficult to repair and almost always have to be replaced with a new radiator.
If you’re replacing your radiator at home, costs will be on the lower end (100 to 300 dollars). However, if you are going to a garage, labor costs can bring your price all the way up to six or 700 dollars.
Why Is Replacing a Radiator So Expensive?
Radiator replacement is partly expensive because you will need to drain and refill your cooling system. Due to the size of most vehicle’s cooling systems, there can be a significant expense just in antifreeze. Using a universal type antifreeze is a good way to save money while still getting your car back on the road. Purchasing the antifreeze in concentrated form is always less expensive than using pre-diluted coolant. Just make sure you use the product that is right for your vehicle! If you have questions on which type or color of antifreeze to use, check out our article about which antifreeze color you should use.
Another thing that adds to the radiator replacement cost for your vehicle is the coolant disposal fee. Engine coolant is an environmental hazard and needs to be disposed of carefully. The additives in antifreeze are hazardous to the environment as they can be extremely deadly when ingested by any living organism. If you hire a repair shop to replace your radiator, they have to pay an extra fee to dispose of the antifreeze they remove from your vehicle. Even if you chose to replace your own radiator, you may have to pay a fee at your local landfill or recycling center.
Get a Second Opinion
One of the best ways to make sure you’re getting a good deal on any work done is to get a second opinion for labor rates. Many shops will do an estimate for a job for free. So, try calling around to a few shops to compare prices. Also, make sure to check around at local auto parts stores to get some prices of radiators so you can compare the price of the parts the shops are charging you. This will also help you decide if the job is something you think you can tackle yourself!
How to Fix Your Radiator for $25!
No matter what type of radiator you have in your vehicle, BlueDevil Radiator and Block Sealer is a quick and easy repair for any leak. BlueDevil Radiator and Block sealer will bond to plastic, aluminum, and any other types of radiator to seal your leak. No need for replacing your radiator or paying astronomical maintenance costs. First, purchase BlueDevil Radiator and Block Sealer to avoid an unnecessary replacement. Watch the instructional video above for a step-by-step guide on how to use our industry-leading solution to any radiator leak or crack.
Try BlueDevil Radiator and Block Sealer
BlueDevil Products can be found on Amazon.com or at AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, O’Reilly Auto Parts, NAPA, and other major auto parts retailers.
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