Radiator replacement cost
Most shops charge $180–$480 in labor, plus $150–$450 for the radiator.
Updated November 2026
Where good SwaxFix bids tend to land: the low end, because shops compete for the job.
See what shops near you will actually charge.
Free to post. Shops bid blind: they see your car, never you. Buy the part yourself, shops bid on labor only. Already have a quote? Check if it’s fair.What the job involves
The shop drains the coolant, removes the fan shroud, hoses and transmission cooler lines if fitted, swaps the radiator, then refills and bleeds the system and checks for leaks.
Signs you need it
- Green, orange or pink puddle under the front of the car
- Cracked plastic end tanks
- Overheating in traffic
- Coolant level keeps dropping
What changes the price
- Aluminum and plastic aftermarket radiators are usually fine
- Automatic transmission cooler lines add steps
- Hoses and the thermostat are cheap to do at the same time
Shop or do it yourself?
Moderate. Messy, but straightforward on many cars.
Questions drivers ask
How much does radiator replacement cost?
At a typical shop, labor runs $180 to $480 (about 1.5 hr to 3 hr of work), and the radiator costs about $150 to $450. That puts most jobs between $330 and $930 total. With SwaxFix you can buy the part yourself and have local shops bid on the labor only.
Can a radiator be repaired?
Small leaks in older metal radiators sometimes can. Most modern plastic-tank radiators are replaced.
Should I flush the coolant too?
The system is drained anyway, so refilling with fresh coolant is part of the job.
Why is my car overheating with a new radiator?
Air trapped in the system, a stuck thermostat or a failing water pump or fan are common culprits.
Find a shop
Want to compare shops first? Browse auto repair near me, or post your job and let them come to you.