How much does it cost to fix a stuck thermostat?

Author: Lizzie Frami  |  Last update: Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Most homeowners spend between $112 and $311 to repair a thermostat. Exact costs range from about $50 to $500, with a national average of $212. The price may will depend on factors like the model you own and whether it has a warranty.

How much does it cost to fix a stuck 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.

How do you unstick a stuck thermostat?

Yes, you can fix a stuck closed thermostat by first allowing the engine to cool, then locating the thermostat and carefully removing it from the housing, and finally replacing it with a new thermostat and gasket before reassembling the housing.

Is it OK to drive 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 much do electricians charge to replace a thermostat?

The cost of thermostat installation can vary depending on several factors, including the type of thermostat, the complexity of the installation, and your location. On average, homeowners can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for professional installation by an electrician.

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

Can I replace a 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.

How much does it cost to have someone change 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.

What causes a thermostat to stick?

Due to corrosion or aging, your car's thermostat can get stuck in a closed position. If this happens, the thermostat will not let the coolant reach the radiator, and, as mentioned above, the engine will overheat, causing severe damage. One of the lesser-known issues is the polar opposite of overheating.

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.

What are the symptoms of a stuck thermostat in a car?

Here are five easily recognizable signs that will alert you that the thermostat needs fixing.
  • You Notice Erratic Temperature Changes. ...
  • You Find Incorrect Readings on the Temperature Gauge. ...
  • Your Vehicle Makes Concerning Noises. ...
  • You Find Coolant Leaks. ...
  • You Notice Problems with the Heating System.

Can a stuck thermostat affect AC?

However, if the thermostat is not working properly, it can lead to several issues, including inadequate cooling.

How to check if coolant is flowing?

Well check the resivor with the car running if there is a change in fill level when you remove the cap then it is flowing, or keep an eye on the temp dials once the temp starts rising feel the tube that goes from the top of the radiator to the engine, if it feels warm then the coolant is flowing.

Is there a way to unstick a thermostat?

This is an easy problem to solve yourself by simply removing the plastic outer casing and, with a very soft brush, delicately brushing off its coil and contact surfaces. It is most effective to clean the thermostat first at its lowest setting, then again at its highest setting.

What happens if you keep driving with a bad thermostat?

If you drive with a bad thermostat, your car could overheat, causing severe and expensive engine damage. And while it's technically possible to drive without a thermostat, we don't recommend it. Your car will not reach an acceptable operating temperature, resulting in higher fuel consumption and excessive engine wear.

How many hours does it take to replace a thermostat?

Installation typically takes about 1 hour.

How do you reset a stuck thermostat?

Turn your thermostat to the 'off' position... Then venture off to your home's breaker box. Find the breaker to your HVAC system, flipping it 'off'. Make sure the breaker is flipped all the way 'off,' then wait for 30-seconds. Turn the breaker back 'on.

Is it okay to drive a car without a thermostat?

Running a car without a thermostat is not a good idea because it can lead to a variety of problems. Furthermore, if the thermostat is removed, the overall performance of the vehicle suffers: Coolant/antifreeze - The thermostat is a simple valve located between the radiator and the engine.

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

The average cost for car thermostat replacement is $661 to $747. Enter your vehicle's information to see how much thermostat replacement costs in your local area.

How do I tell if my thermostat is bad?

7 Ways to Tell Your Thermostat Is Broken
  1. The Thermostat Has No Power. ...
  2. The AC or Furnace Won't Turn On. ...
  3. The Heater or AC Won't Turn Off. ...
  4. The Thermostat Reading Doesn't Match the Room Temperature. ...
  5. The Thermostat Doesn't Respond. ...
  6. The HVAC System Is Short Cycling. ...
  7. The Thermostat Forgets Programmed Settings.

Does the thermostat affect the AC in a car?

The thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of the AC system. If the thermostat is not working properly, it won't be able to regulate the temperature properly, which will cause warm air to be blown into your car.

How much does an electrician charge to replace a thermostat?

The thermostat may be replaced or installed in a house, apartment, or business by an electrician in two hours or less for around $65-$85 per hour — with a total labor cost of less than $170.

Do I need an electrician to move a thermostat?

If you're moving your thermostat to a different room, however, you'll likely need the aid of a professional HVAC technician. They'll have to run a new set of control wires from your HVAC system to where you'd like your thermostat to be situated.

Who fixes a broken thermostat?

There are multiple factors at play when you have a thermostat issue. Only an HVAC professional can diagnose the root of AC repair problems and offer technical solutions for them.

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