How much does a radiator cost on a Honda Civic?

For most Honda Civics, a replacement radiator (part only) typically costs $120–$350 for quality aftermarket brands and $350–$650 for an OEM unit from a Honda dealer. Installed totals generally run about $350–$900 at independent shops and $600–$1,200 at dealerships, depending on model year, engine/transmission, labor rates, and whether related parts (coolant, hoses, thermostat) are replaced. Prices trend higher for newer models, turbo engines, hybrids, and the Civic Type R.

Typical price ranges in 2025

Radiator prices vary by generation, engine, and whether the car uses a manual, automatic, or CVT (some radiators include built-in transmission coolers). The figures below reflect part-only pricing for standard passenger models, using commonly available aftermarket brands (such as Denso, TYC, CSF, Spectra Premium) versus OEM Honda.

• 2001–2005 Civic: Aftermarket $90–$200; OEM $300–$500
• 2006–2011 Civic: Aftermarket $100–$220; OEM $320–$520
• 2012–2015 Civic (including some Si/Hybrid variations): Aftermarket $120–$240; OEM $350–$550
• 2016–2021 Civic (2.0 and 1.5T, including CVT variants): Aftermarket $130–$300; OEM $380–$600
• 2022–2025 Civic (11th gen): Aftermarket $180–$350; OEM $420–$650
• 2017–2025 Civic Type R (FK8/FL5): Aftermarket $300–$700; OEM $600–$900+ (performance cooling packages can cost more)
• Civic Hybrid (2003–2015; 2024–2025): Aftermarket/OEM typically at the upper end of the corresponding model-year range due to lower volumes and unique fitment

These ranges reflect standard aluminum core/plastic tank units, which are common on Civics. Full aluminum or performance radiators cost more. Local availability, shipping, and taxes can also influence the final part price.

Installed cost: parts and labor

Labor time for a Civic radiator swap is usually 1.5–3.0 hours depending on the generation and whether bumper cover or additional front-end disassembly is required. Add fresh Honda Type 2 coolant, possible hoses/clamps, and shop fees. Here’s what that looks like in typical 2025 pricing:

• Independent shop: $350–$900 total (parts $120–$350 aftermarket or $350–$650 OEM; labor $165–$500 depending on local rates; coolant/fees $25–$75)
• Dealership: $600–$1,200 total (OEM parts and higher labor rates)
• DIY: $130–$400 if you supply an aftermarket radiator and coolant; more if you choose OEM or performance parts

Expect the high end if you have a newer generation, turbo engine, hybrid, or Type R, or if additional components are replaced during the job.

What drives the price up or down

Several vehicle- and part-specific factors affect the final bill. Understanding them helps you compare quotes more accurately.

• OEM vs. aftermarket: OEM costs more but offers exact Honda fit and warranty; reputable aftermarket (Denso, CSF, TYC, Spectra) can save 20–50%.
• Transmission type: Radiators for automatic/CVT models usually include integrated cooler fittings, which can cost slightly more.
• Engine and trim: 1.5T turbo models and the Type R have more demanding cooling needs; parts are pricier.
• Radiator construction: Standard aluminum core with plastic end tanks is cheapest; full aluminum or performance radiators cost more.
• Availability and supply chain: Newer or less common variants (hybrids, Type R) can run higher due to limited stock.
• Related parts and fluids: Hoses, clamps, thermostat, radiator cap, and fresh coolant add to the total; damaged fans or A/C condensers will increase costs.

If your car has high mileage or visible hose wear, proactively replacing hoses and the thermostat during a radiator job can prevent future labor duplication.

How to get an accurate quote

A few steps will help you lock in pricing that reflects your exact Civic and prevents surprise add-ons later.

• Provide your VIN and transmission type to the parts counter or shop to ensure correct fitment.
• Ask for an itemized estimate: radiator brand/part number, coolant, clamps/hoses, thermostat (if recommended), labor hours, shop fees, and taxes.
• Compare at least two quotes (independent vs. dealer) and ask about parts and labor warranties.
• Confirm whether the job requires bumper removal, which can add time on newer generations.
• If you’re considering DIY, verify whether special procedures (coolant bleeding, fan shroud transfer, CVT cooler line handling) apply to your model.

Having a detailed, apples-to-apples estimate helps you weigh OEM versus aftermarket and spot any inflated labor or fee line items.

Symptoms your radiator needs replacement vs. repair

Before committing to replacement, it’s useful to confirm the radiator itself is the culprit. Some cooling issues are cheaper fixes.

• Likely replacement: Cracked plastic end tanks, coolant seeping from the core, repeated overheating with internal clogging, or collision damage to the core/fins.
• Possible repair/other causes: Leaky hoses or clamps, bad radiator cap, stuck thermostat, failing water pump, inoperative cooling fans, or external obstructions in the fins.
• Diagnosis tip: A pressure test and visual inspection typically pinpoint leaks; shops can also test for combustion gases in coolant to rule out head-gasket issues.

Confirming the root cause avoids replacing a good radiator when another component is at fault.

Ways to save without cutting corners

You can reduce costs while maintaining reliability by choosing smart parts and timing the job well.

• Choose reputable aftermarket brands (Denso often supplies OEM; CSF, TYC, Spectra are common) for strong value.
• Bundle maintenance: Replace aged hoses, cap, and thermostat during radiator service to avoid repeat labor.
• Use the correct coolant: Honda Type 2 (blue) or equivalent phosphate-free OAT that meets Honda specs; mixing generic coolants can shorten component life.
• Request old parts back and ensure the system is properly bled to prevent air pockets and overheating.
• Shop around for labor rates; mobile mechanics can be competitive for straightforward jobs.

Balancing part quality with a fair labor rate usually yields the best long-term outcome and warranty coverage.

Regional and seasonal considerations

Labor rates differ widely by region; urban dealerships tend to be highest. Winter cold snaps and summer heat waves can strain stock and push prices up temporarily. Road salt regions may see more corrosion-related radiator failures, sometimes complicating fastener removal and nudging labor time upward.

Bottom line

Expect to pay about $120–$350 for a quality aftermarket radiator or $350–$650 for OEM on a typical Honda Civic, with installed totals commonly landing between $350–$900 at independent shops and $600–$1,200 at dealers. Verify fitment with your VIN, compare itemized quotes, and consider related maintenance (hoses, thermostat, coolant) while the system is open to maximize reliability and value.

Summary

A Honda Civic radiator generally costs $120–$350 aftermarket or $350–$650 OEM, with full installed prices averaging $350–$900 at independents and $600–$1,200 at dealerships. Prices rise for newer models, turbo engines, hybrids, and the Type R. Get a VIN-specific, itemized quote, confirm the diagnosis, and weigh reputable aftermarket brands to keep costs reasonable without sacrificing durability.

Is it cheaper to replace or repair a radiator?

In general, it is cheaper to repair a radiator than to replace it. It costs anywhere between $250 to $750 to repair a radiator, depending on what the issue is.

Is changing Radiators a big job?

Remove and replace radiators that aren’t working properly and as well as saving you energy, it will ensure that your home is being heated efficiently. Replacing a new radiator isn’t too difficult a task but do be sure to follow our instructions to avoid any unnecessary mess as well as any impact to the system.

Is it worth replacing a radiator in a car?

Extent of Damage: If the radiator has minor leaks or clogs, it may be more cost-effective to repair it. However, extensive corrosion or significant damage might warrant replacement. Age of the Radiator: If the radiator is old and inefficient, it might be better to replace it with a newer, more efficient model.

Is it expensive to replace Radiators?

Radiator replacement costs anywhere from $100 to $2,500 per unit or $1,500 on average, with cost factors boiling down to the capacity, type of unit, and labor.