How much does it cost to fit a car thermostat?

Author: Dr. Armand Williamson  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 16, 2025

Car thermostat replacement time is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make of the car. It will cost you around $190 to $350, including labor. Thermostat repairs usually take more time, requiring extra time to diagnose and analyze the vehicle's thermostat. It can take up to 2 hours.

How much does it cost to install a thermostat in a car?

Generally, repairing a thermostat costs around $200 to $500. This is the price range you'll find for most vehicles, although some may be higher or lower depending on the circumstances. But if we're talking complete replacement, expect the price to increase by $50.

How much should I charge to install a thermostat?

The cost to install a thermostat is $182 on average, but you could pay between $113 and $264. Thermostats play an important role in our daily lives, cooling us down during the sweltering summer heat and keeping us warm and cozy during winter. While the average cost to install a thermostat is $182, pricing can vary.

Can I drive a car with a bad thermostat?

Driving a car with a broken thermostat is not advisable. The thermostat regulates the engine's temperature by controlling the flow of coolant. If it's stuck closed, the engine can overheat, leading to severe damage such as a blown head gasket or warped cylinder head.

Is replacing a car thermostat easy?

Most automobile thermostats are fairly easy to change. Just follow the upper radiator hose leading to the engine and it should be there at the end of the hose. Usually just two bolts. Just make certain you get the correct stat (they come in differ...

Cost To Replace A Car Thermostat - Why So Much? It's Not a $30 Part Anymore

What are the symptoms of a bad thermostat?

What Are the Signs of a Bad or Broken Thermostat?
  • The AC or Furnace Won't Come On. ...
  • The HVAC System Won't Turn Off. ...
  • The Thermostat Is Unresponsive. ...
  • The HVAC System Short-Cycles. ...
  • The Room Temperature Doesn't Match the Thermostat Setting. ...
  • The Programmed Settings Reset Themselves. ...
  • Check and Adjust the Settings.

Can I replace my thermostat myself?

In most cases, installing a new thermostat is a relatively simple do-it-yourself project that can result in improved comfort and convenience and one that can help you save energy.

What is the lifespan of a car thermostat?

A car thermostat is designed to last a long time – typically around 100,000 miles or 10 years. However, various factors can impact its lifespan. First, driving conditions play a role. If you regularly drive in hot weather or stop-and-go traffic, your thermostat may suffer additional stress.

Will a stuck thermostat throw a code?

A stuck thermostat will also trigger several indicators, warnings, and fault codes. As you read above, you'll first notice the blue low-temperature indicator that constantly stays on.

How to tell if your thermostat or water pump is bad?

Here are signs you've got a bad pump or thermostat.
  1. Corroded Cooling System Parts. Both of these cooling system parts can get corroded if they start to leak slowly. ...
  2. Leaking Engine Coolant. ...
  3. Erratic Temperature Changes. ...
  4. Poor Coolant Circulation. ...
  5. Overheating Constantly.

Is it hard to install your own thermostat?

Installing the thermostat yourself is an easy task that will typically take about an hour from start to finish. Additionally, many available models are low cost — some are under $25 — and the savings gained from the thermostat will help the device pay for itself in a relatively short amount of time.

How long does it take to replace a thermostat?

The duration to remove and replace a thermostat can vary depending on several factors. On average, the process takes around 1 to 2 hours.

Who should install a new thermostat?

Thermostats and HVAC systems often include warranties that may be voided if someone other than a licensed professional does any work to the system, including replacing a thermostat. A thermostat installer will install the new thermostat, check for any issues, and help you program it for comfort and energy savings.

How much does it cost to get a thermostat installed?

The Average Cost to Install a New Thermostat

The average cost of a new thermostat, including installation, ranges in price from $50 to $500 or more based on several factors including the type of thermostat, labor costs, the complexity of the installation, and more.

How much does it cost to fix an overheating car?

Continuing to drive an overheating vehicle can result in a head gasket failure, which can cost between $1,500 and $3,000.” Before checking the engine, wait for the vehicle to cool off. Patrick McCann of WeTryTires.com recommends waiting at least 10 to 15 minutes with the hood open.

How does a car act when the thermostat is bad?

You Notice Erratic Temperature Changes

If you notice sudden and erratic temperature changes from cold to hot or hot to cold, then it could be a sign that your thermostat has stopped working correctly. Get your vehicle inspected if you notice these extreme temperature changes in your vehicle interior.

How much to replace a thermostat in a car?

Car thermostat replacement time is 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make of the car. It will cost you around $190 to $350, including labor. Thermostat repairs usually take more time, requiring extra time to diagnose and analyze the vehicle's thermostat. It can take up to 2 hours.

Can I drive my car with a stuck thermostat?

Yes, you can drive a car with a thermostat stuck open, but it's not ideal and could lead to several problems over time.

How far can I drive with a bad thermostat?

The furthest you can drive an overheating car is about a ¼ mile before you risk irreversible engine damage. While some vehicles could still make it as far as 20 miles, we would never recommend driving very far with an overheating engine.

How can I tell if I need to replace my thermostat?

Signs You Need a New Thermostat
  1. Heating or cooling system will not turn off or on.
  2. The temperature reading is incorrect.
  3. Recent spike in your energy bill.
  4. Frequent temperature fluctuations.
  5. Thermostat is 10 years old or older.

What is the life expectancy of a radiator?

The average lifespan of a car radiator is between 60,000 and 80,000 miles, while many can function even beyond 100,000 miles. However, this number will change based on how well you care for your car and its radiator.

Can I just buy a new thermostat?

You can typically just replace the outdated thermostat with a new thermostat – assuming the latter is compatible with your HVAC system. There are a few things you should know, however, when upgrading your thermostat.

How hard is it to change the thermostat on a car?

Thermostat replacement normally involves the removal of other parts, such as throttle housing and throttle body, as well as draining and refilling the cooling system, but should take a home mechanic around a couple of hours or so.

Who can fit a new thermostat?

Most of the time, you'll need the help of a qualified electrician or gas engineer to install your smart thermostat safely.

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