How Much Is a New Radiator on a Hyundai Santa Fe?

A new radiator for a Hyundai Santa Fe typically costs between $250 and $1,000 in total in the United States, including parts and labor, depending on the model year, engine type, and whether you choose an OEM or aftermarket part. Parts alone usually range from about $150 to $600, while labor tends to add another $100 to $400.

What Affects the Cost of a Hyundai Santa Fe Radiator?

The price of a new radiator on a Hyundai Santa Fe is influenced by several key factors: the specific model year and engine configuration, the choice between original Hyundai (OEM) and aftermarket parts, and local labor rates. Understanding these details helps owners budget accurately and avoid surprises at the repair shop.

Typical Price Range by Category

The following list outlines the main price ranges owners are likely to see when replacing a radiator on a Hyundai Santa Fe, based on current U.S. market data from major parts retailers and national repair-cost aggregators as of late 2024.

• Parts only (radiator unit): approximately $150–$600
• Labor only: approximately $100–$400, depending on shop rates and region
• Total typical installed cost: about $250–$1,000 for most Santa Fe models
• Older models (early 2000s–early 2010s): often towards the lower end of the range
• Newer models (2019–2024, especially turbo or hybrid): more likely at the mid to upper end of the range

These ranges should be treated as planning numbers: your exact bill may sit at either end of the spectrum depending on model specifics, local labor costs, and whether additional cooling components need replacement.

OEM vs. Aftermarket Radiators

One of the biggest cost differences comes from the decision between Hyundai-branded (OEM) radiators and aftermarket units produced by third-party manufacturers. Each option has trade-offs in price, warranty, and quality expectations.

Cost and Considerations for OEM Radiators

OEM, or original equipment manufacturer, radiators are designed and supplied either by Hyundai or its official partners and match the exact specifications of the parts originally installed in the vehicle.

• Typical OEM part cost: around $300–$600+ depending on year and engine
• Where you’ll find them: Hyundai dealerships, some full-service independent shops, and online OEM parts sites
• Pros: exact fit, consistent quality, often better compatibility with sensors, mounts, and hoses; typically good warranty support
• Cons: frequently the most expensive option; dealership labor rates can also be higher
• Best for: newer Santa Fe models, vehicles still under factory or extended warranty, and owners prioritizing longevity and manufacturer backing

While OEM radiators can significantly increase the parts portion of the bill, many owners of late-model Santa Fe SUVs opt for them to ensure full compatibility and maintain resale value.

Cost and Considerations for Aftermarket Radiators

Aftermarket radiators are built by third-party manufacturers and sold through a wide range of retailers, often at lower prices than OEM components.

• Typical aftermarket part cost: around $150–$400 for most Santa Fe years
• Where you’ll find them: large auto parts chains, independent repair shops, e-commerce marketplaces
• Pros: lower price, decent warranties from reputable brands, wide availability, especially for older models
• Cons: quality can vary by brand; in some cases, fit and finish may be slightly less precise than OEM; very cheap units may be less durable
• Best for: older Santa Fe models, high-mileage vehicles, or budget-conscious owners aiming to keep the car running reliably without overinvesting

Choosing a mid-range aftermarket radiator from a recognized brand often strikes a reasonable balance between cost savings and reliability for most daily drivers.

How Model Year and Engine Type Change the Price

Not all Hyundai Santa Fe radiators are created equal: changes in body style, engine technology, and cooling system design over the years play a substantial role in final cost.

Older Santa Fe Models (Early 2000s–Early 2010s)

For first- and second-generation Santa Fe models, radiators are generally simpler and widely available in the aftermarket.

• Approximate parts cost: about $150–$350 for standard engines
• Labor: around $120–$300, depending on access and corrosion issues
• Total typical replacement: often in the $300–$650 range
• Availability: high; plenty of aftermarket options, often in stock at local parts stores
• Complications: on very old vehicles, rusted or seized fasteners can raise labor time and cost

Owners of older Santa Fe SUVs usually face lower parts prices, but extra labor can arise if the vehicle has seen harsh winters, road salt, or poor maintenance.

Mid-Generation Models (Approx. 2013–2018)

As the Santa Fe lineup expanded and engines became more varied, including GDI and turbo options in some markets, cooling systems grew more complex.

• Approximate parts cost: usually $200–$450, depending on engine and trim
• Labor: about $150–$350 at typical independent shop rates
• Total typical replacement: commonly in the $350–$800 range
• Variants: different radiators for base engines vs. turbocharged or high-output models
• Additional components: some setups integrate transmission coolers or require extra attention to sensors and plastic fittings

For this generation, costs can vary significantly depending on whether the Santa Fe has a basic powertrain or more performance-oriented or towing-focused configurations.

Newer Models (2019–2024, Including Turbo and Hybrid)

Recent Santa Fe models, especially those with turbocharged engines or hybrid powertrains, can carry higher parts prices and more involved replacement procedures.

• Approximate parts cost: often $300–$600+, particularly for OEM and hybrid components
• Labor: around $200–$400, as newer designs sometimes demand more disassembly of front-end components
• Total typical replacement: commonly in the $500–$1,000 range
• Hybrid/turbo considerations: more intricate cooling layouts, potential for additional coolant circuits or cooler modules
• Warranty factor: many late-model vehicles may still be covered by powertrain or extended warranties, which can offset or eliminate the cost

Owners of the latest Santa Fe generations should always check warranty status first, as some radiator failures may be partially or fully covered, especially in corrosion- or defect-related cases.

Labor Costs: Dealership vs. Independent Shop

Labor is the second major piece of the bill and can vary widely depending on where the work is done and local hourly rates.

What Goes Into Labor Pricing

Replacing a radiator is an involved job: technicians must drain and refill coolant, remove front-end components, detach hoses and sometimes transmission-cooler lines, and ensure the system is bled and leak-free afterward.

• Typical labor time: around 1.5 to 3.5 hours for most Santa Fe models
• Hourly shop rates: roughly $90–$200+ per hour, depending on region and facility type
• Dealerships: usually charge at the upper end of the range, with OEM parts and brand-specific expertise
• Independent shops: often less expensive per hour and more flexible on parts sourcing
• Added complications: stuck fasteners, damaged hoses, or corroded brackets can extend labor time

In practice, labor costs for a Hyundai Santa Fe radiator typically settle between $100 and $400, with most standard jobs clustering around the middle of that range at independent shops.

Extra Items That Might Increase the Bill

Radiator replacement often reveals other aging or worn components in the cooling system. While not mandatory in every case, replacing related parts during the same visit can be recommended by mechanics to prevent short-term repeat visits.

Common Add-On Parts and Services

The following items may be recommended or required when changing a Santa Fe radiator, each with its own added cost.

• Coolant/antifreeze: fresh coolant is usually required; expect roughly $20–$60 for fluid
• Upper and lower radiator hoses: parts often $20–$80 total, plus minor labor if not already included
• Hose clamps and small fittings: relatively low cost but can add $10–$30
• Thermostat replacement: sometimes recommended as preventative maintenance; typically $50–$200 installed
• Cooling fan or shroud issues: if cracked or failing, these components can add $100–$400+ depending on what’s needed

While these extras raise the immediate bill, they can extend the life of the entire cooling system and reduce the chances of another cooling-related failure in the near future.

How to Get an Accurate Quote for Your Specific Santa Fe

Because radiator costs depend heavily on details like model year, trim, engine, and transmission type, the best way to get a precise number is to seek quotes tailored to your vehicle.

Steps to Pin Down Your Actual Cost

The steps below outline how Santa Fe owners can obtain realistic, itemized pricing before committing to repairs.

1. Gather vehicle details: note the model year, engine size, trim level, and VIN (vehicle identification number, usually visible at the base of the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb).
2. Call or visit two or three repair shops: include at least one Hyundai dealer and one reputable independent shop.
3. Ask for itemized estimates: request separate pricing for the radiator part, labor, coolant, and any recommended related parts.
4. Clarify OEM vs. aftermarket: ask which type of radiator they’re quoting and whether alternatives are available.
5. Check for warranties: verify warranty length for both parts and labor, and ask if any existing vehicle warranties might apply.

Following this process helps avoid vague or incomplete quotes and allows you to compare not just the total price, but also what you’re actually getting for your money.

Is It Safe to Keep Driving With a Bad Radiator?

While cost is a central concern, the condition of the radiator is also a safety and reliability issue. Continuing to drive with a failing radiator can quickly lead to much more expensive engine damage.

Risks of Delaying Radiator Replacement

Most radiator problems start small—slow leaks, minor overheating—but can escalate rapidly if ignored.

• Overheating risk: a leaking or clogged radiator can cause the engine to overheat, which may warp the head or damage the head gasket
• Coolant loss: leaks reduce coolant levels, compromising temperature control and increasing corrosion risk inside the engine
• Transmission issues: on models where the transmission cooler runs through the radiator, a failure can potentially affect transmission performance
• Breakdown potential: overheating can leave you stranded and require towing, adding to the overall cost
• Higher long-term expense: severe overheating damage can lead to repair bills far exceeding the cost of a timely radiator replacement

If your Santa Fe is showing signs of repeated overheating, visible coolant leaks, or sweet-smelling vapor from the engine bay, prompt inspection is usually more economical than waiting for a major failure.

Summary

A new radiator on a Hyundai Santa Fe generally costs between $250 and $1,000 installed in today’s U.S. market, with parts usually falling in the $150–$600 range and labor adding another $100–$400. Prices rise with newer model years, turbo or hybrid powertrains, and the use of OEM components from a dealership. Independent shops and quality aftermarket radiators can reduce the bill, especially for older vehicles, while additional items like coolant, hoses, and thermostats may add to the final total but help ensure long-term reliability. For an exact figure, owners should gather their vehicle details and request itemized quotes from multiple repair providers before proceeding.