What It Costs to Replace a Radiator in a Honda Fit

Expect to pay roughly $450 to $900 at most U.S. repair shops to replace a Honda Fit radiator in 2025, including parts, labor, and coolant. The parts typically run $150 to $600 (aftermarket vs. Honda OEM), labor averages 1.5 to 2.5 hours at $110 to $190 per hour, and coolant plus shop supplies add about $30 to $80. Prices vary by model year, location, and whether related parts (hoses, thermostat) are replaced at the same time.

Typical Cost Breakdown

The total bill for a radiator replacement depends on parts choice and local labor rates. Here’s how the typical charges usually stack up for a Honda Fit (all generations, 2007–2020):

• Radiator (aftermarket): $150–$250
• Radiator (Honda OEM): $350–$600
• Labor (1.5–2.5 hours at $110–$190/hr): $165–$475
• Coolant (Honda Type 2 or equivalent, ~1.0–1.5 gallons): $25–$45
• Shop supplies, taxes, fees: $15–$60
• Optional add-ons: upper/lower hoses ($20–$60 each), thermostat ($25–$70), radiator cap ($10–$20)

Most owners see out-the-door totals in the $500–$800 range when using quality aftermarket parts, and $650–$1,000 if opting for Honda OEM, especially in higher-cost metro areas.

What Drives the Price Up or Down

Several variables influence what you’ll pay, even for the same model and year:

• Parts choice: OEM radiators cost notably more than reputable aftermarket brands (e.g., Denso, CSF, Spectra).
• Local labor rate: Urban markets often charge $140–$190/hr; smaller markets may be $100–$140/hr.
• Model year and configuration: Access is generally straightforward on the Fit; some years may require more time to maneuver the fan shroud or A/C condenser.
• Transmission cooler lines: Some automatic/CVT-equipped Fits have auxiliary lines; this can add small time and fluid costs.
• Bundled maintenance: Replacing aged hoses, thermostat, or cap during the job raises the parts bill but reduces future labor duplications.
• Coolant type: Honda specifies Type 2 coolant; using the correct premix prevents corrosion and warranty disputes.

In short, the biggest swing factor is whether you choose OEM vs. aftermarket and the shop’s hourly labor rate.

Time in the Shop

Radiator replacement on a Honda Fit typically books at 1.5–2.5 labor hours. Many shops will need the car for half a day to allow for cool-down, part transfer, refill, bleeding the cooling system, and a test drive.

When Replacement Is Likely Needed

Beyond visible damage, these symptoms commonly point to a failing or compromised radiator:

• Overheating or temperature spikes, especially at idle or in traffic
• Coolant leaks under the front of the car or crusty, dried coolant around seams
• Frequent need to top off coolant, sweet smell from engine bay, or white residue
• Discolored or sludgy coolant indicating internal corrosion or contamination
• Cooling fan running excessively due to poor heat exchange

If you notice these issues, a pressure test and inspection can confirm whether the radiator or related components are at fault.

DIY vs. Professional Service

Competent home mechanics can replace a Fit radiator with basic tools, but care is needed to avoid damaging the A/C condenser and to properly bleed the cooling system. Consider the following if you’re weighing DIY:

• Tools and supplies: socket set, pliers, drain pan, funnel, hose clamp pliers, torque specs, and Honda Type 2 coolant
• Steps at a glance: drain coolant, remove fan shroud fasteners, disconnect hoses (and any transmission cooler lines), transfer mounts, install new radiator, reconnect, refill and bleed
• Common pitfalls: spilling coolant on belts, trapped air causing overheating, reusing brittle hoses or caps, mixing coolant types
• DIY cost: typically $180–$300 using an aftermarket radiator and proper coolant

DIY saves labor costs but carries a risk of leaks or overheating if bleeding is incomplete. If you’re unsure, a professional install with a labor warranty is safer.

How to Save Without Cutting Corners

You can reduce the bill while maintaining reliability by being strategic about parts and timing:

• Choose a reputable aftermarket radiator (Denso or equivalent) to save over OEM
• Bundle replacement of old hoses and thermostat now to avoid paying duplicate labor later
• Get two to three written estimates and ask for labor time and parts brands up front
• Provide your VIN to ensure correct fitment and avoid returns or rework
• Confirm Honda Type 2 coolant is used (or equivalent that meets Honda spec)

Transparent estimates and quality aftermarket parts usually deliver the best value for a daily-driven Fit.

Warranty and Parts Considerations

Most shop labor warranties run 12 months/12,000 miles; parts warranties vary—OEM typically 12 months, while many aftermarket radiators offer 12 months to limited lifetime coverage. Keep receipts and ensure the shop documents coolant type and any related parts replaced. Using non-spec coolant or mixing types can void parts warranties and cause corrosion.

Regional Price Context

As of 2025, coastal metros (e.g., San Francisco, New York, Seattle) often price a Honda Fit radiator job near $650–$1,000 due to higher labor rates, while many Midwest and Southeast markets land closer to $450–$750 with quality aftermarket parts.

Summary

Replacing a Honda Fit radiator generally costs $450–$900 in the U.S., with most owners paying $500–$800 using aftermarket parts and $650–$1,000 for OEM in high-cost areas. Labor usually takes 1.5–2.5 hours, and using Honda-spec coolant is essential. You can save by choosing reputable aftermarket components, bundling related parts, and getting multiple quotes—without sacrificing reliability.

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 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.

How much does it cost to fix a Honda radiator?

Labor costs are estimated between $297 and $435 while parts are priced between $514 and $646.

How much is a radiator for a Honda Fit?

The average cost for a Honda Fit Radiator Replacement is between $917 and $1,154. Labor costs are estimated between $286 and $420 while parts are priced between $631 and $734. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.