How much does it cost to replace a thermostat on a car

Most car thermostat replacements cost $150–$450 at a repair shop in the U.S., depending on vehicle and access; models with integrated thermostat housings or tight engine bays can run $400–$800+; DIY typically runs $40–$250 in parts and coolant. The thermostat regulates engine temperature, and pricing varies with parts type (standalone vs. integrated housing), labor time, shop rates, and whether additional cooling-system service is performed.

Typical price ranges (U.S., 2025)

Costs vary widely by vehicle class and design. The following ranges reflect current parts pricing and prevailing labor rates at independent shops and dealerships in 2025.

• Common economy sedans/compact cars: $150–$350
• Mainstream crossovers/SUVs/pickups: $200–$450
• Luxury, performance, turbocharged, or cramped engine bays: $350–$800+
• Vehicles with integrated thermostat housings or electronically controlled units (often European or late-model domestic): $400–$1,200

These ranges include parts and labor but exclude taxes and shop fees. Vehicles with integrated housings or complex bleeding procedures often land at the higher end.

Cost breakdown

Parts

Parts cost hinges on whether the thermostat is a simple wax-style valve or part of a larger housing assembly with sensors and fittings.

• Thermostat only (traditional): $20–$80
• Thermostat with housing assembly (common on many modern cars): $60–$250+ (some European assemblies run $150–$350)
• Coolant/antifreeze: $15–$40 (more if full system capacity required)
• Gasket/O-ring/sealant: $3–$15

Many shops recommend replacing the housing gasket or O-ring and topping up (or flushing) coolant to prevent leaks and ensure proper temperature control.

Labor

Labor time is dictated by accessibility and whether air intake, belts, or other components must be removed. As of 2025, independent shop labor typically runs $100–$150/hour; dealerships often charge $150–$250/hour.

1. Easy access (front-mounted thermostats): 0.6–1.0 hour
2. Moderate access (under covers/hoses, some crossovers): 1.0–1.8 hours
3. Difficult/packaged layouts or integrated housings: 2.0–3.0+ hours

Many vehicles fall between 0.8 and 2.5 labor hours. European and high-performance models can exceed 3 hours if cooling components are densely packaged.

Example estimates by vehicle category

These illustrative ranges combine typical parts and labor for common vehicle types. Actual quotes vary by year, engine, and region.

• Toyota Corolla/Camry, Honda Civic/Accord: $180–$350
• Ford F-150 (various engines): $200–$400
• Chevrolet Cruze/Equinox (integrated housing on many models): $250–$500
• Subaru 2.5L boxer engines: $180–$350
• BMW (electronically controlled thermostat, many models): $450–$800
• VW/Audi 2.0T (integrated housing; some paired with water pump): $600–$1,200

Use these as ballpark figures; obtaining your VIN-specific estimate will account for design changes across model years and engines.

Add-on charges and what’s usually included

Quotes may include or exclude related services. Ask for a line-item breakdown so you know what you’re paying for.

• Diagnostic fee: $0 if you approve repairs at the same shop, otherwise often $100–$180
• Coolant flush vs. top-off: flush typically $80–$150 extra; a top-off may be included
• System bleeding and test drive: usually included labor
• Shop supplies/hazardous waste: commonly 5–12% of labor/parts
• Environmental/disposal fee: $5–$20
• Taxes: vary by state/locality

Clarify whether the warranty covers both parts and labor and whether any cooling-system leaks discovered during service will change the estimate.

DIY vs. professional

Handy owners can often handle simple thermostat swaps, but modern engines may require special bleeding procedures and careful torque specs.

• DIY parts and fluids: $40–$250 (thermostat/housing, gasket/O-ring, coolant)
• Tools: socket set, torque wrench, pliers, drain pan, funnel; scan tool helpful for monitoring temps and clearing codes
• Time: 1–3 hours for most; longer for tight engine bays
• Risks: trapped air causing overheating, leaks from improper sealing, broken bolts, misdiagnosis if the real issue is the water pump, radiator, or sensor

If you’re unsure about bleeding procedures or have an integrated housing in a cramped bay, professional service may be the safer, more cost-effective choice.

Signs your thermostat is failing (and when to replace)

Thermostat issues can mimic other cooling problems, so a proper diagnosis helps avoid unnecessary parts replacement.

• Overheating or sudden temperature spikes
• Engine runs too cool; code P0128 or slow warm-up
• Poor cabin heat at idle or while driving
• Fluctuating temperature gauge, especially under load
• Coolant leaks near the thermostat housing
• Cooling fans running excessively or at odd times

Continuing to drive while overheating risks head-gasket failure or engine damage—repairs far costlier than a thermostat replacement.

Ways to save without cutting corners

Smart planning and clear communication with your shop can keep costs in check.

• Get 2–3 quotes with line-item parts and labor
• Ask about OEM vs. quality aftermarket parts and any price-match policies
• Combine with a scheduled coolant service or related work to reduce duplicate labor
• Use a reputable independent specialist for your make; dealer not always required
• Confirm warranty (commonly 12 months/12,000 miles to 24/24 on parts and labor)
• Ensure the shop follows the factory bleeding procedure (some require vacuum-fill tools)

Preventative maintenance—correct coolant type, timely flushes, and prompt leak repairs—helps extend thermostat and cooling-system life.

Timeline and warranty

Most shops complete a thermostat replacement the same day, typically within 1–3 hours of billed labor plus cooling-system bleed and a test drive. Warranties commonly range from 12 months/12,000 miles to 24 months/24,000 miles, with some parts carrying longer manufacturer warranties.

Summary

Expect to pay $150–$450 for most car thermostat replacements, with integrated housings and complex engine layouts pushing costs to $400–$800+ (and certain European designs up to $1,200). DIY can be as low as $40–$250 in parts and coolant but carries risk if bleeding and sealing aren’t done correctly. Get multiple itemized quotes, verify what’s included, and act promptly if overheating occurs to avoid far costlier engine repairs.

Is replacing a car thermostat easy?

Replacing a car thermostat is generally a simple and inexpensive task, often taking around 30 minutes, though the difficulty can vary depending on your vehicle’s make and model and how accessible the thermostat housing is. The process involves draining some or all of the engine’s coolant, removing a hose and bolts to access the old thermostat, replacing it with a new one and gasket, and then refilling the cooling system. However, some vehicles have buried thermostats, making access harder, and it is crucial to ensure the new thermostat is installed in the correct orientation to prevent issues like overheating.
 
This video demonstrates how to replace a car thermostat: 12sTurboChannelYouTube · Aug 26, 2008
Steps to Replace a Thermostat

1. Ensure the Engine is Cool: Never work on a hot engine, as the coolant can cause severe burns. 
2. Drain Coolant: Place a bucket under the radiator and drain some or all of the coolant by opening the drain plug or valve. 
3. Access the Thermostat: Locate the thermostat housing, typically found where the upper radiator hose meets the engine. You may need to remove the airbox to get better access. 
4. Remove the Housing: Carefully remove the hose clamp from the hose and pull off the hose. Then, unbolt the housing from the engine block. 
5. Install the New Thermostat: 
   • Clean the engine block’s mating surface to remove old gasket material. 
   • Install the new gasket and then the new thermostat, ensuring it’s oriented correctly (often with a small vent or “jiggle pin” pointing upwards). 
   • Reinstall the thermostat housing and tighten the bolts gradually and evenly to create a good seal. 
6. Refill the Cooling System: Reconnect the hose, reinstall any removed components, and refill the radiator with the correct mixture of coolant. 
7. Bleed the System: Run the engine until it warms up, continuing to add coolant as needed to remove any trapped air from the system. 

How do I know if my car thermostat is bad?

You know your car’s thermostat is bad if the temperature gauge shows erratic, overly high, or consistently low readings, or if your heater blows cold air or takes too long to warm up. A stuck-closed thermostat causes engine overheating, while a stuck-open thermostat leads to overcooling and slow engine warm-up. You might also notice steam from under the hood, coolant leaks, or a Check Engine Light with specific trouble codes.
 
Symptoms of a failing thermostat:

• Temperature Gauge Fluctuations: Watch the temperature gauge on your dashboard; sudden, erratic swings from hot to cold or readings stuck at too high or too low indicate a problem. 
• Overheating or Overcooling: A thermostat stuck closed will prevent coolant from reaching the radiator, leading to overheating. Conversely, if it’s stuck open, the engine won’t reach its proper operating temperature, a symptom known as overcooling. 
• Poor Heater Performance: If your car’s heater blows cold air or takes a very long time to produce warm air, especially in cold weather, the thermostat may be stuck open. 
• Engine Performance Issues: A thermostat that is not functioning correctly can impact your engine’s performance, leading to poor fuel efficiency, a rough-running engine, or the Check Engine Light illuminating. 
• Steam Under the Hood: In cases of overheating, the high pressure from boiling coolant can cause leaks from the hoses or housing, resulting in steam rising from under the hood. 
• Coolant Leaks: While the thermostat itself doesn’t leak, it can cause coolant to leak from other components if it gets stuck closed, leading to an overflow of coolant on the ground. 

What to do if you suspect a bad thermostat:

1. Monitor your temperature gauge: and listen for unusual engine sounds. 
2. Check for coolant leaks: under your car. 
3. Try running the heater: on full blast to see if the temperature stabilizes or if it provides consistent warmth. 
4. Use an OBD2 scanner: to check for trouble codes like P0128, which can indicate issues with coolant temperature regulation. 
5. Consult a professional mechanic: for a more definitive diagnosis and replacement, especially if you observe any of these symptoms. 

What is the average cost of a thermostat for a car?

A car thermostat replacement typically costs between $150 and $500, with the part usually costing $15–$80 and labor accounting for the majority of the expense. The total price can vary based on the vehicle’s make and model, the complexity of the thermostat (some are integrated into other parts), any additional cooling system problems, and labor rates in your specific area. 
Cost Breakdown

• Parts: A standard thermostat is inexpensive, often $15–$20, but some integrated or electronic thermostats can cost $80–$350 or more. 
• Labor: Most of the cost comes from labor, as the mechanic will need to drain some coolant and remove parts to access the thermostat, which can take 30 to 60 minutes. 
• Additional Costs: If the thermostat housing is also faulty or if other cooling system components like the radiator or water pump are involved, the total cost will increase. 

Factors Affecting Cost

• Vehicle Make and Model: Opens in new tabThe cost of parts and labor can vary significantly between different cars. Luxury or performance vehicles may have higher costs, according to AutoZone. 
• Integrated vs. Standard Thermostats: Opens in new tabSome modern vehicles have electronic thermostats built into the housing or other components, which increases the part cost and complexity of the replacement, notes eBay. 
• Labor Rates: Opens in new tabLabor costs are higher in areas with a higher cost of living. 
• Shop vs. Dealership: Opens in new tabDealerships may charge more for labor than independent shops, but their work often comes with a warranty on parts and labor. 

DIY vs. Professional 

• DIY: You can save money by replacing the thermostat yourself, with costs potentially ranging from $50 to $200. However, this requires mechanical knowledge and the right tools.
• Professional: Hiring a mechanic ensures the job is done correctly and may come with a warranty.

How to Get an Estimate

• Use Online Estimators: Websites like RepairPal and Kelley Blue Book allow you to get an estimated cost by entering your vehicle’s specific year, make, and model. 
• Contact Local Shops: Call around to local mechanics and dealerships to get quotes for the specific repair. 

How much does a mechanic charge to change a thermostat in a car?

$150 to $500
If you prefer to leave the work to a professional, the cost of hiring a mechanic to replace your thermostat typically ranges from $150 to $500, depending on your vehicle’s make and model. While this option is more expensive, it ensures that the job is done correctly and often comes with a warranty on parts and labor.